Pedal for Progress: Riding to Support Pancreatic Cancer Research

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, the Capilano Volkswagen Cypress Challenge, presented by Glotman•Simpson Cycling, is an incredible opportunity to challenge yourself and make a real impact.

Each year, cyclists come together to celebrate their personal journeys, honour their loved ones and raise vital funds for pancreatic cancer research and care at BC Cancer.

Discover three inspiring stories from participants, sharing why they ride and how their personal experiences drive their commitment to the cause.

Why Chris Armstrong Rides

2025 marks Chris’s fourth year participating in the Capilano Volkswagen Cypress Challenge and the second year since losing his wife, Lone, to pancreatic cancer. His team, the Lone Rangers, rides in her memory, honouring her wish to support pancreatic cancer research and care in B.C. — particularly the work of her oncologist, BC Cancer’s Dr. Dan Renouf, whom they came to know after her diagnosis in April 2022 and who also participates in the event every year.

“It’s all part of healing — which may last a lifetime.”

Chris is committed to making the climb every year, driven by the hope that others won’t have to lose people they love to the disease.

Why Haley McGowan Rides

An avid cyclist, Hayley registered for the Capilano Volkswagen Cypress Challenge after her mother, Valerie, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on July 1, 2023. Valerie passed away just three days before the 2023 event and yet, despite her grief, Hayley found the strength to make the 12-kilometre climb — to honour her mother’s memory but also to pay tribute to the generous donors who supported her cause.

“It helped me grieve to be around other people who had also struggled, but also other people who hadn’t been personally affected by pancreatic cancer yet felt it was important to improve outcomes.”

Why the Thomas Family Rides

This year, Anthony Thomas, his wife Carolyn and their daughters Maddi and Emily will participate in the Capilano Volkswagen Cypress Challenge for the first time. Anthony recently discovered the iconic ride and its cause, which deeply resonated with him after his unexpected neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer diagnosis in September 2024.

The family is cycling to help fuel BC Cancer’s life-saving research, which has played a crucial role in Anthony’s cancer journey and will benefit many more families in the future.

“We really want to be a part of helping others who are going through the same thing.”

Why You Should Ride

By cycling up Cypress Mountain, you’re more than just making an iconic climb — you’re helping to conquer one of the deadliest cancers.

Every pedal stroke and dollar raised directly supports innovative pancreatic cancer research and life-saving advancements at BC Cancer, changing the future for British Columbians facing pancreatic cancer and bringing hope to so many families.

By registering for the challenge, you’re joining a community of passionate individuals who are dedicated to rallying for hope, progress and change.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make the climb and save lives.