Sydney Steinbach, a Primary Care Paramedic with BC Emergency Health Service (BC Ambulance) stationed in Fort St. James, is gearing up to participate in this year's Tour de North/Cops for Cancer tour.
This annual event, spanning seven days and 850 km across Northern BC, brings together police agencies and emergency service personnel to raise funds for childhood cancer research and support services at the Canadian Cancer Society.
This year there are 16 riders from the north, two of whom hail from Fort St. James – Brandon Jones representing the RCMP and Steinbach.
The tour this year is running from Sept 20 -Sept 26 and will see participants ride from Prince George to Fort St John and all the way back down to Williams Lake.
Steinbach, a newcomer to road cycling, is not only taking on the physical challenge of the tour but is also riding with a deeply personal motivation.
Having tragically lost her best friend to cancer in a short span of three weeks, Steinbach carries a profound emotional connection to the cause.
"Cancer sits close to my heart... I am riding this year in honour of my family and for all who have been affected by this horrible disease," she said.
Despite being a novice in road cycling, Steinbach is diving headfirst into rigorous training and preparation, aiming to meet the demanding requirements set for the riders.
“I am excited but very nervous for this year’s ride. We are being heavily trained with a specific program and have to meet certain requirements weekly.”
Alongside balancing her regular work commitments and family responsibilities, she is pushing herself to achieve milestones like the 80 km mark before the tour's commencement on September 20.
Reflecting on the upcoming journey, Steinbach expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"This ride is not only an honour to be a part of, but an achievement to complete physically, mentally, and emotionally," she remarks.
The Tour de North route this year will take participants from Prince George to Fort St. John and back down to Williams Lake
