Five cyclists are continuing their 1,800-kilometre trek from the U.S. border to the Northwest Territories to raise awareness and support for Alberta’s volunteer search and rescue teams.
Today, the riders are tackling steep climbs en route to Hinton. Andy Potton, SAR operations manager and a member of Cochrane SAR, is driving the chase vehicle and is currently out of regular communications while navigating the mountain elevations. He was last reported following the last rider up a massive hill this afternoon.
Last night, Potton took over support duties at Banff, allowing the team’s truck and trailer to get ahead and set up at Lake Louise. While following a rider in the dark, he noticed a rear light had failed, and his chase vehicle proved essential in ensuring the cyclist’s safety.
Hinton Search and Rescue is actively monitoring the group’s progress as they prepare to welcome the cyclists.
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So far, the ride has raised $1,800 toward its $5,000 goal, and organizers say it is also boosting awareness of Alberta’s 33 volunteer search and rescue groups.
Donations can be made in support of Alberta SAR at Donate Now - Search and Rescue Alberta.
You can track the ride’s progress here. It's updated every five minutes.