Image Credit: CFJC Today/File Photo

By Adam Donnelly

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

2021 marks the second virtual edition of Ride Don’t Hide for CMHA Kamloops

Jun 8, 2021 | 4:15 PM

KAMLOOPS — Ride Don’t Hide is the largest mental health bike ride in Canada. However, it’s not only a fundraiser for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).

This year, like last, organizers have turned the annual ride into a virtual event meant to help folks get through what we all hope is the late days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Across Canada, the CMHA is hosting another virtual version of their Ride Don’t Hide event. 2021 will be the second time they’ve held the event virtually. In Kamloops, organizers hope folks can capture the celebratory spirit that usually surrounds the event.

“We’re still encouraging people to put some sense of physical activity into it,” Acting Executive Director of CMHA Kamloops, Alfred Achoba said. “We are hoping people don’t just put in the effort. We want them to enjoy Ride Don’t Hide, which is the biggest bike ride in Canada.”

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All funds raised through Ride Don’t Hide remain in the community they originated from. However, the event is about more than just money.

“Ride Don’t Hide isn’t just a fundraiser. it’s also an awareness program,” Achoba said. “We’ve all stayed home for the last year and a half, for most people. It’s really important we be out there, get our vaccine and spend as much time [as possible] outdoors.”

The pandemic has increased stress levels for many Canadians over the past 15 months. However, if there has been one benefit, it’s been the willingness people have shown to spend time outdoors in their community. For Achoba, Ride Don’t Hide is another great reason to get out and enjoy the great outdoors with family.

“Biking is one of the safest modes of transportation – you’re moving around, it’s physical activity. Ride Don’t Hide has always drawn people around – we have youths, we have kids, we have parents – moms and dads – who participate in Ride Don’t Hide every year.”

This year, the Kamloops branch of the CMHA is well on the way to reaching its $25,000 fundraising goal. However, considering the challenges that still exist around mental health throughout our community, they’ll be happy if they can exceed that goal.