Trek Across Maine cycling fundraiser will be virtual
Courtesy / Trek Across Maine
Nearly 2,000 cyclists crossed the finish line in Brunswick for the 2019 Trek Across Maine fundraising ride. The 2020 event will be conducted virtually.
The 36th annual Trek Across Maine fundraising bike ride, scheduled for June 19-21, will be held virtually due to the potential spread of COVID-19.
Bikers anywhere in the world can now register, track their own progress and complete their mileage goals for Trek Across Maine by cycling 60, 120 or 180 miles at their own pace before June 30.
Last year's ride, along a new 180-mile course, drew 1,675 participants and raised $1.3 million for lung disease research, education and advocacy.
Since 1985, the event has raised more than $25 million to fight lung disease. This year, funds from the event will go toward the American Lung Association's efforts to combat COVID-19.
“Based on the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and local government officials, we have decided to shift gears and avoid creating large gatherings of people, which is a natural part of our fun and exciting cycling fundraiser,” Kim Chamard, senior manager of development for the Trek Across Maine, said in a news release.
“Our top priority is to protect the health of our participants, volunteers and staff. We are very grateful for the many people who have already registered for the event. Together, our goal now is to build on the momentum we have seen from our participants and supporters across the globe to fight COVID-19. Now more than ever, we can't let this lung-related virus derail our work. This is an opportunity for us to come together to show our strength and our new virtual options will empower people to do that.”
The three-day event for riders ages 7 and older was scheduled to depart from Brunswick Landing in Brunswick. But organizers have developed new ways for people to participate virtually now through June 30.
Participants can:
- Share their miles on the Trek Across Maine Facebook page.
- Take screenshots showing their progress through Strava, Zwift, Rouvy or other similar biking apps.
- Track their miles using activity trackers (Apple Watch, Fitbit, Garmin devices, etc.).
- Download images to share their personal achievements and fundraising efforts on social media.
In addition, anyone can make a donation to the event to support a participant and raise funds for COVID-19 research online.
Registration for the event is $15. For details about registration and fundraising visit the Trek Across Maine website.
The Trek Across Maine staff will continue to support cyclists and their fundraising goals by offering incentives and giveaways for fundraising accomplishments through June 30.
So far this year, fundraising is well behind the average, with less than half of the $1.3 million goal. The trek has reduced the fundraising minimum to $250. All registrants who raise $250 by June 30 will receive a 2020 Trek Across Maine event T-shirt, medal and commemorative bib. Registrants who raise more than $750 will also receive an official Trek Across Maine cycling jersey.
Trek Across Maine is the largest fundraiser in the country for the American Lung Association.
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