An 800 km bike ride around the Fraser Valley was a long trip, but participants of the Cops for Cancer Tour de Valley say it was worth the effort to help kids battling cancer.
The tour brought together 25 law enforcement and emergency services personnel to raise funds for pediatric cancer programs and research.
The ride began on Sept. 26 in Aldergrove and travelled through more than a dozen Fraser Valley communities, including Langley, Chilliwack, White Rock, Hope and Surrey. The riders stopped at schools and businesses to promote and raise money for the cause.
The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) had three participants in the ride: Det. Craig Burridge, Const. Trevor Sales and Const. Daryl Young.
Young said the ride was one of the best experiences of his life, adding that the best part was meeting young people who have conquered cancer.
“It’s amazing to see these kids and how courageous they are in winning their fights against cancer.”
There are four separate Cops for Cancer tours in B.C., which have raised more than $25 million to fund pediatric cancer programs and research through the Canadian Cancer Society.
The closing ceremonies were held Friday afternoon at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School, where riders were greeted with cheering students and the school’s drumline.
Allan Mugford, regional director of the Canadian Cancer Society Fraser Valley Region, said they will continue to fundraise throughout the year, but are well towards meeting their goal.
"As of Oct 7th the 2013 Cops for Cancer Tour De Valley has raised over $300,000 of our goal of $450,000. To help us reach our goal and make a donation that will go to pediatric cancer research and support programs go to copsforcancerbc.ca and select Tour De Valley to make a contribution.”