A five-day motorcycle ride across Cyprus in support of children with cancer continued on Friday, with the day’s start given by the Cyprus sports organisation (KOA).

The annual “Route of Love” event, held this year from March 11 to 15, is organised by the Pancyprian association for children with cancer and related diseases ‘One Dream One Wish’.

According to KOA, the nationwide motorcycle ride traditionally begins at the organisation’s premises as part of its long-standing support for the charity’s work.

The ride set off on Friday morning, with the participating motorcyclists receiving warm applause from KOA staff.

The launch took place in the presence of KOA’s vice-president, Kalli Hadjiosif.

During the event, Hadjiosif congratulated the association for its work and presented a donation cheque from KOA to the association’s president and MP, George Penintaex.

“Accept the warmest congratulations of the Cyprus sports organisation for the important and noble work you carry out,” she said, adding that she hoped the initiative would continue to grow and encourage more people to support the cause.

Penintaex expressed gratitude for the organisation’s continued support and thanked the volunteer motorcyclists who take part in the five-day journey.

“For five days they leave their families and work behind to join us on this great route of love,” he said.

He also referred to the association’s 28 years of work, stressing that collective effort can help improve the lives of children battling cancer and ensure they do not feel alone in their struggle.

The aim of the ride, which travels across the island, is twofold: to raise public awareness about childhood cancer and to financially support the charitable activities of the association.

At the same time, the participating motorcyclists promote the message of responsible and safe riding.