The 2020 GearUp4CF Ride Is Going Virtual, and Rumble’s Here For It

 

From June 20th until July 26th, British Columbian cyclists will be challenging themselves on distance rides all over the province as part of this year’s virtual GearUp4CF. It’s a cause and event we love supporting at Rumble, because it’s the reason Rumble was created in the first place!

First started fifteen years ago as a multi-day cycling challenge from Vancouver to Banff, GearUp4CF has evolved into one of the year’s biggest fundraising events in BC for Cystic Fibrosis Canada, with two routes and over two million dollars raised over its history. 

 

It's a Part of Our Story

Cystic Fibrosis is the most common, fatal genetic disease affecting young Canadians.  It destroys the lungs and digestive system. There is no cure (yet!), but investment in research and advocacy has made the difference between life and death for thousands of Canadians with CF. Life expectancy for cystic fibrosis in Canada has skyrocketed over the last 25 years, increasing from just 17 years old in the 1980s, to 50 today. But there’s more work to be done to find a cure.

Rumble Supershake was created by our founder, Paul, who was born with cystic fibrosis. A nutrient-dense diet can help those with cystic fibrosis maintain good health. Paul knew this, but he was having trouble finding high-quality, natural supplement drinks to keep him nourished while in and out of hospital. Nine years ago, Paul received a double-lung transplant, and launched Rumble shortly after. Only two years after his transplant in 2013, Paul finished the GearUp4CF ride from Vancouver to Banff, and did it again in 2014 - a huge feat for anyone, let alone a transplant recipient. 

 

Making a Difference, Together

Given Rumble’s history and connection to the CF community, we’re excited to continue our product sponsorship of the GearUp4CF ride this year, which has gone virtual! COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, so maintaining physical distance right now is especially important for those with cystic fibrosis (and their family members)

To participate, cyclists are asked to map their own routes in their home communities over the next month, and fundraise in support of CF research. Many riders have already committed to cycling between 200km-1200km, and logging into the GearUp4CF Strava group to track their progress. As of June 26th, the event has raised over $66,000, with an overall goal of $85,000. This is doubly exciting, because like many charities, Cystic Fibrosis Canada is anticipating a 50% drop in revenue due to COVID-19. 

Virtual rides, runs, and challenges are the new normal this summer. We’re stoked our GearUp4CF friends get to continue the tradition and ride together, apart.