The date is drawing near for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) annual bike ride at 108 Mile Ranch on June 23, and more riders are encouraged to jump on board and cycle for charity.
Organizer Valinda Boyd says there is plenty of room for more riders and event volunteers for the Ride Don’t Hide event, which is open to cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
"We just want people to support mental health, as well as physical health in our community."
This year, the ride offers participants a choice of longer or shorter bicycle routes, with both 10- and 20-kilometre rides around the scenic 108 Mile trails. The first ride starts at 9:30 a.m. from the 108 Heritage Site.
The sign-up fee of $35 (adult/youth) includes a Ride Don't Hide cycling shirt, a hotdog lunch, bottled water and fresh fruit, Boyd explains, although children can participate for free.
She adds there will be a food concession on site for spectators.
Businesses could consider forming teams to join, and people could challenge their friends, she notes.
There will be some incentives for people who raise more than $500, Boyd says, and a door prize of a child's bicycle.
While supplies last, there will be 10 children's bicycle helmets provided free to youngsters who need them to join the ride by calling Boyd to request one at 250-395-4419.
The 100 Mile House Wranglers Junior B Hockey Club has partnered with CMHA for this year's event.
Three newly-signed Wranglers players will be riding as "event champions."
CMHA volunteer Didi Henderson is riding again this year, after enjoying last year’s event, where she got together with friends and neighbours and entered as a team.
She says The Meadowlark Gang challenges other teams to enter and try to take its “Golden Spoke Award” away, which the team won in 2012 for the most creative outfits.
Raising awareness of mental health issues and reducing the stigma is very important, Henderson adds.
"Physical activity has always been fundamental to maintaining my own mental health and well-being, so having a fun cycle around the lake with family and friends is a great way to promote this, and raise funds for a good cause."
More information and registration forms are available online at www.ridedonthide.com, or pick up a form downtown at Didi's Boutique.
Registrations will be accepted until the start of the event, but folks are encouraged to register earlier.
Volunteers are still needed, so if you can help out with the event, call David Majcher at 250-395-3269 or e-mail davidmajcher@shaw.ca.