Michael to Saddle Up for Cancer Classic

Michael Milton is on track to be fit and ready to ride in the Come to Life Ballarat Cycle Classic in February, following an accident on his bike a month ago that left him with multiple fractures in his spine.

Registrations have just opened for the 2011 event which is expected to raise more than $150,000 for the Ballarat Cancer Research Centre. Milton is the ride's ambassador.

"I am really looking forward to getting back on the bike. I've been for a couple of short rides but the back brace makes breathing difficult.

"By February the brace should be gone and I will have had some time to train so I will be ready to push hard again," said Milton.

The 2011 ride will be the fourth year for the event which has so far raised over $300,000 for the centre.

"What impresses me most is that your entire entry fee goes to the centre. Event organisers have worked hard to ensure all expenses are covered by sponsorship and the whole community is behind them.

"The Centre plays a vital role in cancer research, a cause that is close to my heart," said Milton who has been diagnosed with cancer twice.

"I've donated quite a few body parts to cancer," joked Milton.

This year the Classic will be larger than ever with cyclists and supporters travelling from Adelaide, Melbourne and regional Victoria.

The ride features a number of options up to 100km as well as a relay race. The course takes in the magnificent scenery of the challenging Mt Buninyong and also showcases the town of Ballarat and its surroundings.