Cycle Lifeof

Annual fundraiser for Vancouver Island hospice care pedals to 10th ride

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

What a difference a decade makes! For 10 years, cyclists from across Vancouver Island have pedalled for hospice care in their communities.

This August, as the Cycle of Life Tour marks its 10th anniversary, riders will be adding to the more than $1.5 million raised to date for vital end-of-life care.

Many riders are returning for the 10th anniversary, says Debbie Greenway, Community Relations and Events for Victoria Hospice.

“We’ll have a little celebration this year for all the riders and make it extra special, and of course, Chef Heidi is planning an amazing meal for everyone during our night on Salt Spring,” Debbie says.

Beyond raising essential funds for hospice care and offering a fabulous experience for riders, the event is an opportunity for many people with personal connections to hospice to give back and remember a loved one.

“So many of our riders have a connection to their local hospice through a loved one, and it’s a time they can celebrate these people,” Greenway reflects. “Gathering year after year, they know each other’s stories and they can get together and celebrate people in their lives.

CYCLE OF LIFE:

125 cyclists

+ 200 km + 2 days

= one huge difference cycleoflifetour.ca

Two routes are available – the classic and the enduro, for more experienced cyclists. Riders are wellsupported throughout with sweep riders, support vehicles, food, snacks, first aid and water, plus bike support from Oak Bay Bikes. “We’re very conscious of everyone’s safety and enjoyment,” Debbie says.

“We had one first-time Cycle of Life Tour participant last year who had cycled in many other riding events, and he said, ‘I’ve never felt this way before,’” Debbie says.

Ride this way...

Founded by Graham Robertson and presented by Think Communications, the Cycle of Life Tour is organized by Victoria Hospice and a volunteer committee to raise funds for hospice care across Vancouver Island.

This year’s two-day, 200-kilometre tour through the scenic Saanich Peninsula, Cowichan Valley and Salt Spring Island is Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26 and Aug. 27.

Riders are required to raise a minimum of $1,000, which includes a free riding jersey. Those who raise $2,500 also receive a pair of bike shorts.

In addition to their team of riders, Country Grocer has also been a corporate sponsor for the ride’s 10 years, and thanks to the support of all sponsors and supporters, every dollar raised stays on Vancouver Island to support local hospices.

“It’s been great being part of this fundraiser over the years,” says Country Grocer Spinners team leader Dave Hubscher, who credits the ride for getting him back in the saddle on his bike nine years ago. Two Spinners, Serena and Jeff, have pedalled through all 10 rides!