Funds raised by Tour de Coast Team Sunshine Coast riders reached $58,265 as of Sept. 15, according to Kristi Wiebe, a volunteer with our team's support committee.
Wiebe reported the updated amount raised on the lower Coast in support of the Cops for Cancer charity ride following the Tour's visit to Sechelt on day three of its eight day 800 km. venture from BC's lower mainland, up the Sunshine Coast and across to Vancouver Island.
Event surprises and traditions
Weather conditions were excellent for that community event that included music by local country band Blue Western, free face painting and the opportunity to meet with the riders which include representatives from RCMP and Vancouver Police. Three time tour veteran Crp. Mark Wiebe and a rider using the handle "Cst. Maxx Danger" are riding for our area.
"Mark and Maxx participated in a surprise donut eating contest" Kristi told Coast Reporter via email. Maxx emerged victorious in that endeavor but both were big winners when Mark's daughter, Abigail presented all the riders with a blue "Sunshine Coast bead" for their necklaces, carrying on a multi-year tradition.
"The most moving part of the day was when original 20 year-plus committee member Patti Kennedy partnered with Cpl. Wiebe to present a cheque for $50,000 to the Canadian Cancer Society. Mark and Patti, longtime friends, shared an emotional hug as they presented this cheque together."
Funds raised help children battle cancer
The funding raised locally was the result of a very successful Red Serge Gala, hosted Sept. 10, as well as smaller events, corporate and individual donations pledged to the riders. While the new fundraising totals for the local riders were not yet posted to the Tour de Coast website on Sept. 18, the value raised should bring the local reps to near the top of the leaderboard. No matter which rider completes the tour in first place when it comes to funds raised it is the children of BC that benefit.
According to its website "Tour de Coast 2024 remains determined to continue supporting children and families living with and beyond cancer. Your ongoing support is vital, as we continue towards making life better today and transform the future of cancer forever."
