John Riddell of Quarryville is a veteran bicyclist. Riddell has completed a number of long-distance rides, and some of them have taken him across entire states. This summer, Riddell plans to bike from New York City to Niagara Falls, but this time, he is motivated by more than just his love for cycling.

In July, Riddell will participate in the 10th annual Empire State Ride. The goal of the ride is to raise money for cancer research; the funds raised by riders will benefit Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, N.Y. When Riddell first learned about the ride, he was primarily interested in the opportunity to bike another scenic route. Shortly after he decided to participate in the Empire State Ride, Riddell said he began to realize how many people in his life have been affected by cancer. Riddell then decided to participate in memory of his friends and family members who have lost their battles with the disease, as well as to honor those who have survived it.

"It started out as something I just wanted to do. It's a big challenge, and it sounds like an awesome ride," Riddell said. "The more I got into it, it became more energizing for me to be a part of something that will help generations to come research a cure for cancer."

Riddell currently works as the director of finance for Dayspring Christian Academy in Mountville, and he often completes his 50-mile round-trip commute on his bike when the weather permits. Before Riddell worked in Mountville, he worked at Black Rock Retreat Center in Quarryville. Riddell worked at Black Rock Retreat Center for 26 years, during which time he became close friends with his co-worker Nancy Engel. Engel battled lung cancer for nearly eight years before passing away in July 2023.

In addition to cycling in honor of Engel's memory, Riddell has dedicated his ride to his sister-in-law Lisa Gregory, his friend Matt Bland and his next-door neighbor Bob Kauffman, each of whom has survived a battle with cancer.

The Empire State Ride will be the longest ride Riddell has ever attempted, and he is training every day to increase his endurance and muscle strength in preparation. The route is more than 500 miles in length, and bikers will ride for roughly 80 miles each day. "It's a big commitment, but to be honest I'm going to enjoy it," Riddell said. "Biking helps clear your mind, but it's also a time for me to talk with the Lord. Often, He challenges me about things in my life."

To participate in the Empire State Ride, individuals must raise a minimum of $3,500. To learn more or to help Riddell reach his fundraising goal, visit http://tinyurl.com/RiddellEmpireRide.