The BC Lung Association’s 25th Annual Bicycle Trek for Life and Breath brought together 400 cycling enthusiasts and event volunteers from across B.C. earlier this month.

On September 12 and 13, bikers took a 200 kilometre trek to raise funds for vital lung health research, programs and air quality initiatives.

The two-day ride through the Fraser Valley saw three locals riding for a cause they strongly believe in.

Joan Robinson, Kim McDonald, Suzanne Lambert and the former area director for the BC Lung Association, Annie Galligan, represented Golden in the trek and said that though it was very difficult, they were well taken care of and were blessed with great weather. Riding under the name, “The Soar Butts”, these dedicated ladies, along with a team-mate from the coast, raised $2300 for the BC Lung Association (BCLA).

“Next year we plan to do the ride again and we encourage people from the community to join us,” said Robinson, adding that cyclists have to condition a bit as the trek is quite difficult.

According to the BCLA, to participate, cyclists raised a minimum donation of $425 and in return travelled a fully supported bike route from start to finish, with rest stops, food to fuel the journey, great scenery and a wide range of fundraising incentive prizes, including the chance to win a trip for two to the Caribbean.

“People of all ages came out for this year’s 25th anniversary Bike Trek. Our youngest ‘Trekker’ was 12 years of age and our oldest 82. Witnessing healthy people of all ages put their lung capacity to the test in support of a good cause is inspiring,” said Marissa McFadyen, Events Co-ordinator for the BCLA.

So far, the 2009 Bike Trek event has raised well over $375,000, contributing to the total $4.5 million raised during the event’s 25 year lifespan. Post-event fundraising continues until October 13, 2009 and organizers hope to surpass this year’s event fundraising goal of $400,000.

For more information or to make a donation in support of the BC Lung Association call 604.731.5864 or toll free at 1.800.665.5864 (outside Greater Vancouver), email info@bc.lung.ca or visit www.bc.lung.ca.