The Big Bike is rolling our way again. Find 29 friends and go for the ride of your life on June 25.
A major fund-raiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the bike's been coming to the Coast since 1998. Over the years Sunshine Coast residents with big hearts have raised $52,300. The money raised is used for research, prevention of disease and health promotion.
Last year's rides in Gibsons and Sechelt raised a whopping $9,338, according to Danny Desouza of the B.C. Heart and Stroke Foundation. The two stars who raised the most money on the Sunshine Coast last year were Richard Fortier of the Howe Sound Pumpers and Bobbie Warner of the Law & Order team. Fortier brought in $635 and Warner $544 from the 2003 ride.
This year, four teams are scheduled to pedal their hearts out in Gibsons. In Sechelt, three teams were set to ride. Local volunteer Dave Kimpinsky said there's still time to join in the fun.
"The more people the better," Kimpinsky said. His telephone number is 604-885-7834 if you need more information. Kimpinsky urges riders to have pledges of at least $50. There are some nifty incentive prizes at different levels of sponsorship. From a unique hat at the $50 level to a Timex Ironman watch with heart monitor at the $2,500 level, there's something for everyone. Teams raising $3,000 will be entered into the grand prize draw for a mountain bike. That draw takes place Oct. 4.
So make June 25 a day to get some exercise and help stop the biggest killer in our province - heart disease and strokes.
