May 28, 2008 (Vancouver, BC) – The BC Cancer Foundation’s Westside Cycling Classic presented by the Airey Group on June 1, is fast approaching but there’s still time to register for the event and ride with legendary Vancouver Canuck, Trevor Linden, Tour de France veterans Axel Merckx, and Alex Stieda, and Olympian snowboarder Ross Rebagliati, who are all participating in the charity event on Sunday, June 1. We managed to catch up with Linden to talk about his passion for cycling and his involvement in the BC Cancer Foundation’s cycling fundraiser.

With all the charities and fund raising events out there why did you choose to participate in the BC Cancer Foundation’s ride?
Trevor Linden: For me it was a natural fit. I do a lot of riding around the Westside area. It’s a great area to ride in and I have done a lot of work for the BC Cancer agency over the years, so when this event came up, after hockey season, I was in.

Cycling events aren’t new to you – can you tell us a little about your involvement with cycling over the years?
TL: I really rediscovered my love for riding about 10 years ago – getting back on the bike at 29, you forget how much fun it is. My wife was doing a few legs of a cross-Canada ride which I followed along with, but what really got me started was participating in some adventure races I was doing back then.

You’ve done some big events in the past, Sea to Summit, Test of Metal, Trans Alps, etc., so you’re well prepared for the ride this Sunday, June 1.
TL: Cycling is just something I really enjoy but I don’t consider myself anything other than a guy that likes to go out and have fun on the bike.

You’re going to be riding with some big names in the cycling community, Axel Merckx who you know, and Alex Steieda.
TL: Yes, I was introduced to Axel through my wife who met him at the Tour of Courage last year, since then we have spent some time cycling together and I was recently at one of his climbing clinics in Kelowna, where I learned a lot. (laughs)

What advice can you give riders coming out to participate at the BC Cancer Foundation’s fundraiser ride?
TL: Just get out there and have fun. It’s a great route to ride and there’s no better way to start off the summer season than participating at an event like this for a great cause as well.

Merckx, Linden, Stieda, Rebagliati and friends will also be participating in a private ride on the morning of Saturday, May 31 for a maximum of 20 people who can fundraise, or donate $10,000. The morning excursion will start with breakfast at the Wedgewood Hotel, followed by a 2-3 hour ride. Later in the day the participants will attend a private dinner with the celebrity guests at the Blue Water Cafe in Yaletown.

The BC Cancer Foundation’s Westside Cycling Classic is family-oriented event that’s open to recreational cyclists of any age and ability, and offers a shorter route for children ages four to 11. Keen cyclists can set a competitive pace on the 36km course, while others can cruise at a leisurely pace and enjoy UBC’s scenic endowment lands.

The BC Cancer Foundation’s Westside Cycling Classic, is also offering a luxury “Live the Dream” tour for two to the Tour de France as a unique prize for the top fundraiser.

For information and to register for the BC Cancer Foundation’s Westside Cycling Classic visit www.cycleforcancer.com or call 604-696-BIKE. For information on the trip to the Tour de France visit www.sportingtours.co.uk.