Parents Barry and Trish and brother Jason are preparing for their seventh Ballarat Cycle Classic, which is held this Sunday. 

But this year training hasn’t been a priority for Team Rebekah. 

“We get the bikes out once a year,” Mr Watt said. “It’s a fundraiser, not a race.” 

Rebekah Watt was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2006, at age 27.

She later learnt the cancer had spread to other parts of her body, after experiencing back and chest pains.

“She was diagnosed with cancer in March and passed away in August the same year,” Mrs Watt said. 

The family has been raising funds for cancer research since her death, in the hopes of finding a cure. 

“We want to make sure they can continue with their research,” Mr Watt said.

“We also wanted to do something for Rebekah. 

“She used to give life 100 per cent and if we hadn’t done (the Ballarat Cycle Classic), she would have.” 

About 27 people will wave the Team Rebekah flag at Sunday’s event. 

The three teams will compete in the Lake Walk, Lake Relay and the MTB Fat Tyre Challenge events. 

The Watts raise about $300 each year for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute through the event. 

The Mount Buninyong 50km, 60km, 85km and 100km ride will begin at 8.30am.

A Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Family Fun Day will be held between 8am and 3pm at Windmill Drive in Lake Wendouree.

There will be childrens’ activities and entertainment at the event. Register online at ballaratcycleclassic.com.au or on the day from 7am.

kara.irving@fairfaxmedia.com.au

AT A GLANCE

WHAT: Ballarat Cycle Classic 

WHEN: February 15, 2015 

TIME: 8.30am to 3.30pm

WHERE: Windmill Drive, Lake Wendouree