On August 26 and 27, the TuGo Trailblazers participated in the Ride to Conquer Cancer, benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation. During this epic, 2-day event, we rode 250 km from Vancouver, BC to Seattle, Washington. In total, we raised over $22,000 with support from TuGo as well as individual and corporate sponsors!
TuGo’s passionate about giving back to the community and supports causes close to our hearts through Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, like the Employee Volunteer Program; we were confident they would back us in this challenging endeavour too!
A personal vendetta against cancer
Now in its 9th year, the Ride supports clinicians, scientists and researchers whose discoveries will have a profound impact on our communities and worldwide.
As many of us on the team have unfortunately been touched by cancer, the cause struck a personal chord as well. That’s why, despite some of us being a little shaky on wheels, we were inspired to embrace the challenge!
Day 1: An emotional send off
The ride began bright and early in Surrey, BC, with an emotional opening ceremony. The weather was amazing and although the group of riders was diverse, they all had infectious smiles and energy. As we rolled out, the many supporters lining the streets and cheering us along, buoyed our spirits.
We crossed the US border quickly, and aid stations about every 25 km kept us hydrated and fueled throughout the day. After regrouping for lunch in Bellingham, then riding 50 km more, we crossed the day 1 finish line together!
Rows of tents and food and beer trucks greeted us as we arrived at camp. After dinner, speakers gave personal accounts of what it meant for them to beat cancer and take part in the ride.
Day 2: Rough terrain and a minor setback
The second day looked much like the first with beautiful blue skies and a nice, gentle breeze pushing us towards Seattle. We made great progress, and before we knew it, it was lunch. However, the toughest part of the ride was yet to come with hilly terrain along with 30+ degree weather!
With the TuGo Trailblazers riding so far over 2 days, we were lucky to have only one minor setback. A wasp attacked one of our members causing a lot of pain. But after a temporary break, he toughed it out and our team crossed the finish line together!
The team prevails
Anticipating the finish line, energized the whole team. We could hear supporters cheering from a kilometre away.
When we rounded the final bend, it was both emotional and satisfying to know we’d conquered the Ride!
Let’s #BeatCancer,
Mike
