Castlegar resident Loreen Amonson is helping to raise money for kids battling cancer one pedal at a time.
Amonson is participating in the Great Cycle Challenge and has raised over $1800 for the SickKids Foundation.
The challenge works by setting a goal for the amount of kilometres that you want cycle for the month of August.
After, you register online and create a fundraising page to keep your friends up to date on your progress and to let them donate to the foundation.
Amonson said taking up the challenge was an easy decision for her.
“My mom passed a couple years ago because of cancer and I have a really good friend that’s also battling cancer right now,” said Amonson.
“I also took part in this fundraiser because it’s directed towards children and I’m an early childhood educator. With all of these things occurring in my life and my passion for biking, it was really easy for me to get involved.”
Amonson surpassed her initial fundraising goal of $500 with flying colours and she hopes to cycle 400 kilometres by the end of the month.
Amonson has been biking everywhere across the West Kootenays to help reach her goal.
“I’ve biked to both Nelson and Trail from Castlegar, which has helped me to increase my kilometres,” said Amonson.
“I’ve also taken my bike across all of the three bridges in Castlegar and that’s 23 kilometres round trip from my house.”
The bike rides have also motivated Amonson to cycle farther over time.
Completing the bike challenge has been an incredible experience, according to Amonson.
“This whole challenge has been fantastic,” she said.
“There’s a Facebook page with everyone whose completing the challenge this month. All of them are doing amazing things and to know that I’m playing a small part in that feels pretty good.”
You can still take part in the initiative by visiting the Great Cycling Challenge’s website.
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