Pedalling for Purpose – Beyond the Finish Line

Today, our team of 2024 Cops for Kids riders returned home to Kelowna to a crowd at the Ramada Hotel under sunny skies, with smiles on their faces. After a cozy night at the Prestige Vernon Lodge and a hearty breakfast at Denny’s in Vernon, the team started their journey from the Kalamalka Lake view point south to return to Kelowna. By now, the team was in sync as they rode in pairs along Hwy 97, with a quick stop in Lake Country at SaveOn Foods to thank them for the help with groceries to feed the hungry cyclists over the past 10 days.

Upon arriving at our homecoming, we had a short ceremony before the start of the “See You Later” hugs. For some who started this ride thinking that it was their last year, they’re doubting themselves and wondering if they’ve got another one in the tank for next year. For the 2 new riders who doubted if they could accomplish this feat at all, they’re already looking forward to next year and how they’re going to make it even better. For many returning riders, saying “see you later” was a reminder of why they need to come back again next year to work together with their colleagues with a common goal.

Over the past 10 days the team has accomplished things together that they didn’t know possible. They’ve felt a sense of pride after meeting folks in communities who appreciate their service and want to extend their gratitude. And they’ve been moved to tears with stories from families who have benefitted from the fundraising and training that this ride requires. While our need currently exceeds our fundraising levels, it’s a reminder of why we need to continue to work with generous folks like the Thomas Alan Budd Foundation and others in our community, so that we can help the families who rely on our efforts in their time of crisis. Our work is never done, we will continue to accept donations all year but we look forward to “Seeing You Later”.