Bend ‘Race for Life’ Special for One Spectator

The High Desert BMX track in Bend held a very special benefit on Saturday. About 125 riders ages 4 to 46 from all over Central Oregon (and beyond) took part in the Race for Life to raise money for children with leukemia, as well as one local Sparrow.

Dominic was the youngster honored at the event. He is like many other 10-year-old boys: He likes to watch BMX, hang out with his friends and be silly. But the one thing that sets him aside is his fight with leukemia.

Dominic’s mom, April, said it was extremely overwhelming to see how everyone came together and did this for her son and family.

Race for Life is a nationwide fundraiser that takes place on tracks across the country, all benefiting children with leukemia.

Riders at the Big Sky Park paid $20 to race. Half of the money went to the competition, while the other half went to the cause.

Many said that although they could earn double points competing in Saturday?s race, it was more about the cause than anything.

Track operator Rick Vequeray said they had about 50 to 60 more riders than usual because it was a benefit event.

Dominic?s mom April said she could not believe the turn out, and felt amazing knowing that so many people want to help.

Dominic currently travels back and forth once a month from Redmond to Portland for treatments at the Doernbecher Children?s Hospital in Portland. He is doing well, but he still has a long way to go, and seeing so many people ride in his honor on Saturday showed him that he?s not battling the disease alone.

The second race for life event will be next Saturday, June 6th at the Smith Rock BMX track in Redmond — and despite the recent theft of several starting gates, organizers say it will go on as planned, thanks to an outpouring of help from the community.