Cycling 200 km from White Rock to Cultus Lake and back might seem like a long haul to most, but for Gibsons cyclist Gordon Leslie and some 350 others, taking part in the BC Lung Association’s annual Bicycle Trek for Life and Breath (Trek) is the final leg of a journey Gordon started training for months ago.
“This will be my seventh year,” said Leslie. “It was my sister who got me started. The first year was tough. I wasn’t in good enough shape. And that infamous hill we all face down on day one was a killer! But when you make it to the top, man it feels great and Cultus Lake is beautiful.C
A recreational ride, not a race, Trek takes place Sept. 6 and 7 and is designed for cyclist of all levels — from the casual rider to the experienced cyclists. Together, during the event’s 30-year history ‘Trekkers’ including Leslie have raised more than $6 million.
Leslie will be ride once again this year alongside his sister and Trek teammates all of whom have been gearing up all summer long.
“People of all ages take part — some coming every year for a decade or more,” said BC Lung Association event coordinator Kate Jarvis. “It’s as much a fundraiser as a Trek family reunion. And the family keeps on going and growing. It may not be surrounded by the same fanfare as other large charity events — but that’s precisely why it’s so special.”
To participate, cyclists pay a $40 administration fee and are required to raise a minimum donation of $500 to help fight lung disease. Participants travel a fully supported route from start to finish with rest stops, food to fuel their journey, and fabulous scenery. In addition, for all their fundraising work Trekkers are provided with incentive prizes.
For more information or to register call the BC Lung Association at 604-731-5864 or toll free at 1-800-665-5864 or visit www.bicycletrek.ca.
