By Vernon Matters staff

New format for Cops for Kids

Jun 29, 2020 | 10:13 AM

The RCMP’s Cops for Kids ride is going to look very different this year as it complies with COVID-19 physical distancing rules.

The charitable organization will not have its usual 30-member team pedaling across the region this September, instead opting to designate a few local riders to complete each leg of the 10 days on behalf of the team.

The remainder of the team will continue to pedal 100 km each day in their home community as a promise to the children who need them most.

“For parents with a child facing illness, disability, or traumatic crisis they don’t have the option to cancel or give up, and the dedicated group of cops are much the same,” states a B.C. RCMP press release issued Monday. “These families still need assistance, and so the group is committed to continue on.”

Under the new format for the 20th anniversary of the ride, the 30 law enforcement officials will still train on their own time all summer, along with meeting their commitment to fundraise a minimum of $2,500 and provide their own equipment in order to be a part of the team.

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While the riders won’t be cycling across the Southern Interior, they will each get the opportunity to ride one day from September 11-20 on the designated route as a representative for the organization.

Local supporters will be asked to stand safely at a distance to offer their support in the form of waves and cheers as the small group passes through.

As a new fundraising initiative, they’re also opening up the opportunity to train like a Cops for Kids rider by offering a virtual ride to cycling enthusiasts who may want to challenge themselves while also raising funds for the children in crisis in our region.

The Cops for Kids Virtual Ride for the Life of a Child invites cyclists of all abilities to register to complete either 50 km, 100 km, or even a hardcore 1,000 km from home on their own time from now until September.

Riders who complete their cycling goal, and raise a minimum of $500 will receive a 20th anniversary Cops for Kids jersey to say thank you.

To register for the Virtual Ride for the Life of a Child, or to make a donation to one of the riders please visit www.copsforkids.org

Ride dates include: