ACV to sponsor 401 Bike Challenge for pediatric cancer hospitals

Air Canada Vacations has announced that it will once again be the title sponsor of the 401 Bike Challenge.

To mark the occasion, the company will donate $10 to benefit the Toronto SickKids, Ottawa CHEO and Montreal Children’s Hospital for every Air Canada Vacations travel booking made on June 27, 2024.

Bookings can be made through local travel agents or here.

The 401 Bike Challenge is a three-day (574 km), one-day (128 km) or half day (33 km) charity bike ride offering various route options and durations to suit all levels of cyclists.

First launched in 2005, the event was created to raise awareness and funds to support the pediatric oncology units of the Toronto SickKids, Ottawa CHEO and Montreal Children’s Hospital.

To date, the initiative has raised close to $3 million dollars, helping to make a difference in the lives of children living with and beyond cancer.

“As the title sponsor of the 401 Bike Challenge, we would like to encourage others to take part in this rewarding journey,” said Nino Montagnese, vice-president at Air Canada Vacations. “We believe in making your dreams travel so even if you’re not up for the ride, Air Canada Vacations will make a $10 donation to the cause for every tour or travel package booking made on June 27, 2024. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated team who have signed up to meet the challenge and raise funds to help improve the outcome for children living with cancer.”

This year’s ride will take place Aug. 14-16, 2024.

Riders can choose to participate in one of three rides:

• 3-day ride: Toronto to Montreal, 574 km

• 1-day ride: Cornwall to Montreal, 128 km

• 1/2-day ride: John Abbott College to Montreal Children’s Hospital, 33 km

“For 19 years, the 401 has been our family's labour of love,” said Gene Piccoli, founder of the 401 Bike Challenge. “We could never have imagined that the journey, which began with just seven adults and a young boy in the pre-dawn hours of a cold morning on our way to Toronto, would evolve into the epic event it is today. We feel blessed to have met so many wonderful people equally dedicated to making a difference. Lifelong relationships have been forged, creating what we now fondly call the 401 family.”

To learn more about the 401 Bike Challenge or to donate, click here.

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