Bike-A-Thon to raise awareness for mental wellness

About 500 Hunting Hills students are set to raise awareness for mental wellness and support positive initiatives ‘one pedal at a time’ at the school’s biennial Bike-A-Thon event.

Organized by the school’s Leadership Team, students and staff will participate in a 24-hour event that empowers youth to take proactive measures to maintain their mental wellness. Connecting as a school allows students to reach out and support their peers while promoting mental wellness and raising funds for projects that advocate student wellness in the school and our community.

To kick off the event, former Red Deerian and Hunting Hills graduate Skylar Roth, who recently ran across Canada to support mental health initiatives, will address participants.

“I grew up in Red Deer with a passion for all sports, particularly soccer. I played for the Red Deer Renegades throughout my youth. After graduating from Hunting Hills in 2014, I finished my soccer career at Red Deer Polytechnic University. In the last decade, I have been dedicated to finding my physical limit through endurance, whether long days in the mountains or running across Canada,” he said. “Today, I am fortunate to be able to share my story with others in the hope of inspiring others not just to chase their dreams but to take care of their mental health as well. When we have a sound mind, we have a sound body!”

Throughout the event, several community members will ride stationary bikes in support as well.

In 2022, the Bike-A-Thon raised just over $33,000, which brings the total legacy to $311,800 over six events.

Funds from this year’s event will support mental wellness at Hunting Hills, including the breakfast program, post-secondary scholarships, and community organizations such as Turning Point Society and Vantage Community Services.