Newly healthy man will cycle from Edmonton to Revelstoke during Bike to Work Week May 26-Jun 1 2014
VANCOUVER, May 23, 2014 /CNW/ - Dr. Richard Backus, a sports medicine physician and president of the Bike to Work BC Society Board often prescribes "Take at least two bike rides and call me in the morning" to his patients. But even he, a long time commuter cyclist and advocate of cycling health benefits, was very impressed by Andrew Moore's success.
A year ago in April, Moore, a Revelstoke resident passed out at the wheel of his truck with what was termed a 'cardiac episode.' "Luckily I was somewhere safe and no one was hurt," he recounts. "It was a real wake up call, I knew I had to do something to lose weight and get healthy." he says.
"I thought the Bike to Work program was the easiest, most fun way to get in shape and I liked the idea of the team support and the chance to win some prizes," he says, so he registered for Revelstoke's Bike to Work Week. He cycled a round trip of 35 kilometres each day to his job as photo lab manager at the local Pharmasave. He has been cycling to work every day since.
Now sixty pounds lighter and a whole lot healthier he has set a new goal. This Bike to Work Week he plans to cycle from Edmonton to Revelstoke, a distance of 720 kilometres, departing May 26, and arrive in time for his 11 am shift Sunday June 1, at Pharmasave. "I want to prove a point," says Moore. "Cycling to work is something most people can do, and it will make a huge difference to your health. My life was literally saved by Bike to Work Week and I want others to know it can make a difference to them and it is also a lot of fun."
Safety is of paramount important to Moore who has a highly visible truck accompanying him at a safe distance to alert motorists to his presence.
Dr Backus comments, "Andrew's accomplishment is an example of what Biking to Work is all about-converting time wasted commuting in a vehicle into a joyful experience—easily managed, to improve both your physical and mental health, and have a positive impact on the environment."
"We certainly don't expect everyone to do the huge distances Andrew plans. Even a day or two a week can make a big difference and in many areas you can take the bus with your bike and ride part-way. You don't need fancy clothes or an expensive bike, but it is important to be visible and wear a helmet. We provide lots of support and fun such as celebration stations with food and entertainment, and many workplaces have team leaders to encourage you."
Bike to Work Week is May 26 to Jun 1. Thirty-eight communities in BC are participating through Bike to Work BC Society, which provides resources and facilitates events province wide. Register and qualify for great prizes including Exodus Travels' Cuban Highlights Cycling Trip at www.biketowork.ca
Image with caption: "Andrew Moore gets ready for to participate in Bike to Work Week, by cycling from Edmonton To Revelstoke, after losing 60 pounds cycling to work in Revelstoke in the past year. (CNW Group/Bike to Work BC Society)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140523_C9653_PHOTO_EN_40685.jpg
SOURCE: Bike to Work BC Society
For info or to set up an interview:
Penny Noble Executive Director Bike to Work BC 604 805 5637 or [email protected]
To contact Andrew Moore directly: Cell 250 837 8508
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