Cycling 200 kilometres might seem like a long haul to most, but not for Richmond cyclist and elementary school teacher Doug Masuhara.
Every Spring for the past 11 years Masuhara says he has dusted off his sneakers and started training for the BC Lung Associations annual Bicycle Trek for Life and Breath (Trek) - a two day, scenic ride to raise funds in support of lung health.
This will be my 12th year taking part. A friend involved with the event asked me to join up more than twenty years ago but it wasnt until my mother passed away, in part due to breathing problems, that I registered for my first Bike Trek. Ive been coming back ever since, says Masuhara. Now its an annual ritual. Its a great time for a great cause and Ive gotten to know so many wonderful people.
Each year more than 350 cyclists converge in White Rock to ride the 200 km to Cultus Lake and back. A recreational ride, not a race, Bike Trek takes place on September 10th and 11th and is designed for cyclist of all levels from the casual rider to the experienced cyclist. Over the events 27-year history Trekkers have raised more than 5 million dollars in support of lung health.
Event Coordinator Marissa McFadyen says, Trek is so much more than a fundraising event its more like a family reunion that keeps on growing. It may not be surrounded by the same fanfare as other large charity events but thats precisely why its so special. Each and every Trekker has a story which drove them to show up and ride in the first place and its these stories that give the work we do true meaning.
Interested in participating? If so, early registration is encouraged. Each participant must raise a minimum of $475 in donations by September 9th. In return, participants travel a fully-supported route from start to finish with rest stops, food to fuel their journey, and accommodations. Participants can also earn a range of fundraising incentive prizes including the chance to win a Hawaiian vacation for two. The more you raise, the greater the rewards!
For more information or to register call the BC Lung Association at 604.731.5864 or toll free at 1.800.665.5864 (outside Greater Vancouver) or visit www.bicycletrek.ca
About the BC Lung Association
A non-profit, non-governmental organization, the BC Lung Association is dedicated to improving lung health and promoting clean air initiatives across the province. Through public awareness campaigns, the BC Lung Association acts as an educational resource for the general public as well as those living with respiratory conditions. The BC Lung Association also specializes in patient support programs, community services and advanced medical research.
