Fleet gets off his feet for cancer

It’s a great cause, and Kaua‘i’s Ron Fleet wants to be a part of it in a big way.

Fleet, Vision Properties’ broker-in-charge, plans to join six-time Tour De France winner Lance Armstrong, along with thousands of others, on October 17, riding 100 miles in Austin, Texas to raise money for cancer survivors. Through the LiveStrong Foundation, anyone can make a donation in their name, anonymously, or in memory of a loved one. When you donate, the foundation will send Fleet an e-mail, so he can thank you personally. Fleet will take care of his own airfare, hotel accommodations, and other expenses. Any monies you donate will go directly to the LiveStrong Foundation as a tax-deductible gift.

If Fleet raises at least $5,000, he will get a very special treat; dinner with Lance Armstrong. “Even if you can only afford $10.00 or $20.00, it would be of great help, but would you consider a buck a mile?” Fleet said. Donations do need to be logged by August 25, so get them in as soon as you can, as Fleet guarantees that he will ride the entire 100 miles.

Fleet, 51, is the only rider from the Garden Isle participating in the event and only one of two riders registered from the state. With eight grandchildren, the U.S. Navy veteran has no doubt that he can go the distance. He also rode in the Paradise Ride from July 22-23, completing 95 miles.

“That was my first long distance ride ever, but I did it and I’m confident that I can do it again,” Fleet said. To donate, go to www.laf.org, click on Donate, then click Peloton Project Donation, then type in Fleet. You can also write a check payable to Lance Armstrong Foundation and drop it off at Vision Properties. “I’m doing this to help a great cause and to meet a great survivor, Lance,” Fleet said.

Duane Shimogawa, sports editor, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 257) or kauaisports@pulitzer.net.