More than 70 riders of all ages and skill levels signed up for the challenging 112km bike ride between Telegraph Creek and Dease Lake that took place June 22. Chief Rick MacLean started this fundraiser nine years ago and has watched it grow yearly. In past years, funds have been used to purchase a wheelchair, help support families with medical crises, and this year proceeds went to the Dease Lake Rec Centre.
The route is gruelling on a bike. Three mountains have a 20% grade, but the goal is not to race, so riders can put their bikes in a support vehicle anywhere along the route and continue further along. The weather cooperated with sunshine and a sprinkle of rain. Riders and support vehicles stopped at lookouts and by the river, and enjoyed delicious food at the Burn. Everyone, including Grand Chief Doug Kelly, peddled into Dease Lake together with community members cheering the tired cyclists for the last few kilometres. It was a day of wellness, friendship, team building and much appreciation.