This year’s Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock begins this weekend.

The ride starts begins Saturday in Port Alice and ends in Victoria on October 3.

Riders, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, military personnel, and community members, will cycle for 14 days across Vancouver Island.

The route covers about 1200 kilometres, with funds raised going to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Proceeds raised along the way will support pediatric cancer research and caring programs like Camp Goodtimes, which provides a safe, fun environment for children with cancer.

Riders from the Comox Valley this year include Courtenay deputy sheriff Graham Fuller, BC Highway Patrol officer Colleen Holbrook, and Courtenay firefighter Naseem Habibi.

Starting from Port Alice tomorrow morning, riders will make their way to Port Hardy and Port McNeill on Sunday, then Woss and Sayward on Monday, September 22.

On Tuesday, September 23, the tour reaches Campbell River, followed by Courtenay and Comox on Wednesday, September 24.

They'll then head through  Cumberland, Union Bay, Qualicum Beach, and Parksville Thursday, September 25 and Port Alberni Friday, September 26.

Communities along the route are encouraged to cheer on the riders, take part in various fundraisers over the coming weeks or donate online at Tour de Rock.