She may not share legendary cyclist’s Lance Armstrong’s skills or speed, but on August 28, Carrie Grinter knows that she’ll rival his determination and passion when she puts her pedals to the pavement in a trek across the province.

Grinter is one of 44 cyclists that will hit the road in the 130-kilometre fundraiser Ride With Lance, started by Armstrong who is a testicular cancer survivor.

The 27-year-old Etobicoke native was inspired to take part after the February death of Mississauga man Gerald Thompson from a rare form of cancer. Thompson was the father of two of Grinter’s best girlfriends.

Thompson, 52, was diagnosed with peripheral sheath nerve sarcoma and died quickly just three months later.

Grinter decided the Ride With Lance would be her way to pay tribute to Thompson’s memory and support her friends.

Riders are required to raise $20, 000 to participate and with just over a week-and-a-half to go before the event, Grinter has raised just under $7, 000.

If you would like to donate and help support Carrie’s ride, click here or e-mail carrie.grinter@gmail.com.