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What does summertime mean to you?
To the MS Society of Canada, BC and Yukon Division, it means it’s time to dust off those racing bikes, grab a helmet and be ready to sample lots of Okanagan wine for the annual MS Bike - Okanagan Experience on September 7 and 8, 2019.
With over 12 different rest stops at wineries and a trail that truly shows the beauty of the Okanagan, MS Bike event coordinator Brie Lam believes it’s a unique ride that ‘showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Okanagan in addition to being a fundraising ride for a good cause.'
"I myself was a participant for nearly a decade," said Lam. "MS touches far too many lives in Canada. I think the ride is important for raising awareness about MS, as well as fundraising."
Canada has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis in the world, with 1 in 385 Canadians currently living with MS.
The MS Bike’s participant goal is bigger than last year’s with 120 locals and tourists already registered. Their target is to have 140 cyclists join the event this year. Lam emphasized that registration is still open.
"Anyone over 10 years old may participate in the ride," said Lam.
Each participant that registers commits to raising a minimum $350 prior to partaking in the ride. The funds raised go towards to the MS Society of Canada for research, treatments and programs.
Hint: There are fundraising rewards for those who raise minimum $1,000.
Last year, the event raised over $100,000. Their goal this year is to raise $130,000 and they are 28% of the way there!
The riders will have the choice of riding the short 40 km route or long 70 km route on Saturday, September 7, and the short 34 km route or long 45 km route on Sunday, September 8.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore both sides of the bridge, Kelowna and West Kelowna on the route– think of all the wineries you get to try!
If riders choose to purchase wine on their route, the MS Society will transport it to the finish line, so they won’t be carrying the bottles with them!
After the long ride on Saturday, there will be celebration dinner at the Coast Capri Hotel from 6 pm to 10 pm which is complimentary for the riders. This year’s theme is ‘Summer Elegance in black and white.'
People who would like to attend but are unable to ride the bike tour can purchase tickets for the dinner here.
If you love wine and biking, this is the event to sign up for! This two-day event is wonderfully supported by the community and riders definitely get a great bang for their buck – a scenic bike ride, winery tour, dinner and fundraising for a cure!
For full event details, registration or to donate, please visit the MS Bike website.
Header photo contributed by Multiple Sclerosis Society of British Columbia and Yukon.
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