MONTREAL — Air Canada Vacations has signed on as the title sponsor of the 401 Bike Challenge – and it’s inviting travel advisors and travellers along for the ride.
As part of a special initiative – and in keeping with ACV’s commitment to give back to the community – ACV will donate $10 to benefit Toronto SickKids, Ottawa CHEO, and Montreal Children’s hospitals for every travel booking made on June 27, 2024.
Bookings can be made through local travel agents or on the Air Canada Vacations website at www.aircanadavacations.com.
The 401 Bike Challenge, established in 2005, is a charity bike ride designed to raise awareness and funds for the Pediatric Oncology Units of the Toronto SickKids, Ottawa CHEO, and Montreal Children’s hospitals. The event offers various route options, including a 3-day ride covering 574 km, a 1-day ride of 128 km, and a new half-day ride of 33 km, catering to cyclists of all levels.
To date, the challenge has raised nearly $3 million, significantly impacting the lives of children battling 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 of 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.”
Montagnese added: “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 and offers three participation options …
- 3-day ride: Toronto to Montreal, 574 km
- 1-day ride: Cornwall to Montreal, 128 km
- 1/2-day ride (new for 2024): 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.”
All funds raised will be divided among the Pediatric Oncology departments at Toronto SickKids, Ottawa CHEO, and Montreal Children’s hospitals.
To learn more about the 401 Bike Challenge or to donate, visit www.401bikechallenge.ca.
