Cyclists raised more than $663,000 during this year’s MS Bike ride between Airdrie and Olds, despite the first day of the event being cancelled due to poor weather.
The two-day ride was held June 21–22 and was scheduled to begin and end at TransCanada Turbines in Airdrie, with a 7 a.m. start time. Organizers called off the June 21 leg due to unsafe weather, but the event resumed the next day.
Participants raised $663,175, closing in on a $700,000 fundraising goal. A total of 453 riders and 59 teams took part, according to MS Canada’s event website.
The Airdrie-to-Olds ride is part of MS Canada’s national MS Bike series — one of 11 events held over four months across the country. It is the third-largest MS Bike event in Canada, according to a pre-event media advisory.
Known for its community atmosphere, the Airdrie ride features themed rest stops, lawn games, and a post-ride celebration with a beer garden and catered smoked meat meal. Riders also face the route’s only major climb — a hill famously nicknamed “Death Hill.”
Funds raised go toward MS Canada programs including peer support groups, the MS Knowledge Network, and research into the causes and treatment of multiple sclerosis.
“Alberta, you rode with heart,” MS Canada wrote in a July 31 social media post.
“From Leduc to Camrose and Airdrie to Olds, our MS Bike community came together June 21–22 for an unforgettable weekend — filled with connection, determination, and celebration.”
The organization reported a combined Alberta total of more than $1.8 million, including $1,209,412 from Leduc to Camrose and $662,975 from Airdrie to Olds. The Airdrie total has since increased to $663,175.
“Together, you raised over $1.8 million in support of Canadians living with MS,” the post said. “Whether it was your first ride or your 36th, your commitment continues to power progress and bring us closer to a world free of MS.”
“Thank you to every rider, volunteer, and supporter who made these events possible,” MS Canada added.
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