With a total of 2,200 kilometres behind them — and more than $30,000 raised between them — Squamish's Doug Hackett and Rick Smith are gearing up for their 12th Bicycle Trek for Life and Breath.
"We love any excuse to cycle, enjoy the outdoors and have fun with friends — and Trek allows to do all that and make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate," Smith said in a press release. "We've been participating for years now and look forward to catching up with fellow Trekkers — and meeting new ones — every September!"
The BC Lung Association's annual fundraiser covers 200 kilometres from Fort Langley to Cultus Lake and back. Hackett and Smith always get support from their wives, Muff and Yvonee. The funds go toward research, education and patient support.
"It is thanks to advances in research and immunization efforts, these infectious diseases remain well controlled in Canada — at least for the time being. Trek fundraisers and supporters are helping ensure it stays that way," Marissa McFadyen, events manager for BC Lung Association, said in the press realease.
According to the BC Lung Association, one in five British Columbians are affected by lung or breathing conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and breathing conditions that affect sleep.
Donations to support Hackett and Smith's rides can be made at bicycletrek.ca.
