Cheering students and a pounding drumline greeted the Cops for Cancer team at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School on Friday, where the riders ended their 800 km journey.
The Cops for Cancer Tour de Valley brought together 25 law enforcement and emergency services personnel to raise funds for pediatric cancer programs and research.
The ride began on Sept. 26 in Aldergrove and has travelled through more than a dozen Fraser Valley communities, including Langley, Chilliwack, White Rock, Hope and Surrey. The riders stopped at schools and businesses to promote and raise money for the cause.
The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) had three participants in the ride; Det. Craig Burridge, Const. Trevor Sales and Const. Daryl Young.
Young said the ride has been one of the best experiences of his life, adding that the best part is meeting young people who have conquered cancer.
"It's amazing to see these kids and how courageous they are in winning their fights against cancer."
He said he is also thankful for the support of the APD, which gave riders the time off of work, and the efforts of his coworkers, many of whom donated their overtime hours to Cops for Cancer.
There are four separate Cops for Cancer tours in B.C., which have raised more than $25 million to fund pediatric cancer programs and research through the Canadian Cancer Society.
The closing ceremonies were held at Friday afternoon at Abbotsford Senior Secondary School.
“The success of our Cops for Cancer Tour De Valley is built on the three pillars of Committed Cops, Inspirational Kids, and Caring Communities. Each community through the Fraser Valley has shown amazing support through the nine days the riders toured the Fraser valley communities visiting schools, businesses, and community partners," said Allan Mugford, Regional Director Canadian Cancer Society, Fraser Valley Region.
"We keep fundraising through the year but as of Oct. 7 the 2013 Cops for Cancer Tour De Valley has raised over $300,000 of our goal of $450,000. To help us reach our goal and make a donation that will go to pediatric cancer research and support programs go to copsforcancerbc.caand select Tour De Valley to make a contribution.”