May 12, 2014 (Chelsea, Quebec) – There is a new exciting and fun bicycle charity event called “Lap the Gats” to support Parkinson’s Disease research.  The inaugural event will take place on May 31, 2014 on a scenic 21 km loop in the beautiful hills of Gatineau Park in Chelsea, Quebec.  The park will be closed for the event allowing participants to ride without worrying about traffic.  The event is inspired by Parkinson’s researchers, Dr. David Park and Dr. David Grimes, who often race each other over the same loop.

The charity race is meant to be enjoyable for all levels of bicyclists.  Participants can just come out for the sheer enjoyment of biking, either alone or with friends.  For those who want to be competitive, the event has a Tour de France flavor offering prizes for individuals in different categories for the fastest climbers (red polka dot jersey) and fastest overall riders (yellow jersey) who completes the highest number of laps in the shortest period of time.

Funds raised in this event go to the Parkinsons Research Consortium (PRC).  The PRC is based at the University of Ottawa and the Ottawa Hospital, and consists of scientists and clinicians in the Ottawa community committed to finding a cure to this devastating neurodegenerative condition.  The PRC is also dedicated towards making an immediate impact for those people suffering from PD by providing better patient care and improving quality of life for PD sufferers.

Please support our community, help us fundraise, join in the charity event, and make a difference!   You can register for the event at www.lapthegats.org.  The cost of the event is $50 for registration with an additional $100 fundraising target.  Join us, help us spread the word and kickstart you biking season….just you, your bike, and the road for a good cause.