The Cypress Challenge began in 2008, organized by Glotman•Simpson Cycling Club, and a group of friendly cyclists who wanted to promote a positive image for the sport.
The dedication to find a cure for pancreatic cancer began with Geoff Glotman, an avid cyclist, who was looking for a way to give back to the community. Geoff's mother-in-law had passed away of the disease, giving his family a personal connection to the cause.
With so few survivors to advocate for research and funding, the Cypress Challenge was established to raise awareness and support with the hope that more funds for research will lead to improved outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients. Over its thirteen year history, the Cypress Challenge has raised $3.89 million and is the largest privately funded fundraising event for pancreatic cancer in Canada, and the largest community-based event for BC Cancer Foundation.
This incredible event has built strong momentum, transforming the pancreatic cancer landscape in our province, such as helping to establish:
This year, more than 800 British Columbians will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It’s projected that only 10 per cent (or 80 of those people diagnosed) will live five years.
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect at an early stage and is often resistant to treatment. Although it is the tenth most common cancer in Canada, it is the fourth leading cause of cancer death.
Unless more effective treatment strategies are found, pancreatic cancer in Canada is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer death by 2030.
Learn more about the work being performed at BC Cancer and how your dollars will help: Pancreatic Cancer Research & Care
Online registration is open until 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 6th.
INDIVIDUAL
TEAM
Teams require a minimum of four members.
In-person registration is available at package pick-up on Friday, August 5th and Sunday, August 7th (times and locations below).
Participants are encouraged to follow current health and safety protocols as specified by the B.C. Health Authority
Share #CypressChallenge on social - post your photos, stories, and don’t forget to tag us!
Join the Cypress Challenge Club on Strava to share your cycling activity as you train for the big day, and to see what others are up to!
PARTICIPANT CHECK-IN AUGUST 5th & 7th
All participants are required to check-in, in person, before starting the ride. To avoid congestion on event day, we encourage you to join us at early check-in on Friday, August 5th. If you check in on Friday and receive your chip number, you do not need to check in again on Sunday.
PARKING, ROAD CLOSURES AND START TIME
Parking at the base of Cypress Mountain is limited. If you drive, here are some parking options:
The highway entrance to Cypress Bowl Road will be closed from 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. to allow participants sufficient time to set off and clear the start area. If you have family or friends driving up the mountain, please encourage them to leave plenty of time to make it through ahead of the road closure. The ride begins on Cypress Bowl Road, Gate 6, shortly after the turnoff for Mulgrave School.
Start time for all participants is 9:00 a.m. The start will be a self-seeded, neutral roll-out. Please seed yourself appropriately for the safety of all riders. The following categories will be marked: under 45 minutes, 45-60 minutes, over 60 minutes.
RULES OF THE ROAD
Please remember this is not a race, and keep the following in mind to ensure everyone has a great day:
AFTER THE RIDE
Celebrate your climb at the finish line! We'll be listening to tunes and snacking on goodies thanks to our incredible supporting partners! Presentations will start at approximately 10:15 am.