Chris Korte

Babylon resident rides to raise money for cancer

Chris Korte of Babylon rode 100 miles in the Lance Armstrong Fundraiser for cancer in Philadelphia recently. He raised $2,000.     In a written account he sent to all of his supporters, Chris related how cancer survivor Lance Armstrong welcomed all of the riders and thanked them all for their participation. His words brought encouragement, said Korte.     Part of a group of about 35 riders who agreed to do 100 miles, Korte said he got off to a good start but was quickly passed up by more seasoned riders. He began to tire and questioned if he could maintain the pace to complete the tour.     “Just as I was considering abandoning this fast-paced group for those riding at a saner pace, Lance Armstrong and a party of four joined the group,” said Korte. “My surprise at the opportunity to ride with Lance generated  competitive juices and I wasn’t aware I even had.”  That was just the boost Korte and some others needed and before he knew it, he and the others passed the 25-mile mark, then the 50 and then the 80.     “The last 20 miles I paid dearly for the unbridled exuberance I displayed while riding the first fifty,” said Korte.     Throughout the ride, Korte further strengthened his will by thinking of te people who had given him so much encouragement and support and of those who had fought cancer. “I didn’t want to disappoint any of you,” he said in his email