It's time to get out from behind the stigma of mental health issues during Ride Don't Hide, an awareness and fundraising event being held Sunday at the CN Centre parking lot.
Ride Don't Hide is in its fourth year in Prince George and saw about 45 riders participate last year with many people attending the variety of activities during the event.
This year the event begins with registration at 9 a.m. and a few words being said by organizers and an inspirational story shared by Devon, a young man who will talk about his journey through his mental illness.
There is a health fair at the site where 14 booths will see different organizations on hand to offer information related to mental health. There is a barbecue lunch offered by donation featuring hamburgers and hot dogs, as well as children's activities, including a children's obstacle course, as well as arts and crafts activities while a DJ provides musical entertainment.
Participants have the option of four different bike riding courses, including a 30-kilometre ride featuring a trek straight up university hill to challenge the most elite athlete. There's a 20km, a 10km and a 6km ride, non of which are races.
Each group has a leader and someone who brings up the rear to make sure everyone stays on track and there are vehicles that will cruise the courses to make sure no one is stranded should mechanical difficulty arise.
To raise funds people can register online, which comes with an email link so that participants can gently nudge their friends and family to donate to the cause. People who don't want to ride their bikes but wish to help raise funds can join the effort as a virtual rider and people can donate to the cause that way.
Registration is also available at the event.
For more information visit ridedonthide.com/bc/ride/prince-george/.
