August 22, 2007 - 5:05am
By Allen Lewis
Under sunny skies, Malaspina University-College staff and students climbed aboard and rode through the City of Parksville as part of the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Big Bike fundraiser recently. Partnered with staff from Parksville Career Centre, the Malaspina crew surpassed all expectations as they blistered through the downtown city core.
When asked of the significance of their team name, Malaspina co-captain, Bob Katsko explained that Atrevida was the name of one of Captain Alexandro Malaspina’s ships with which he explored Vancouver Island. “The crew felt that Atrevida, meaning bold or daring in Spanish, aptly described our spirit."
The 30-seat Big Bike was itself a formidable machine, but with all hands on deck, it was certainly a site to behold. Little could stop the enthusiasm, certainly not mere traffic, as the massive vehicle pulled onto Jensen Avenue. Careening around corners, red blood cells flapping in the wind, the svelte team of riders were fortunate to have the navigational skills of a veteran driver, compliments of the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Keenly aware of the labouring crew, Joe knew exactly when to manoeuvre safely back to terra firma. In between gasps for air, team members alternately pedalled, and flailed their noise-makers. Passers-by cheered; drivers honked, and everyone smiled as Parksville enjoyed a little commotion for a good cause.
Safe and sound back in the Parksville Community Centre parking lot, the announcement was made that the adventure raised nearly $1,400 for the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Malaspina’s team Atrevida included Eva Chestnut, Kaitlyn Deas, Cheryl Dill, Taylor Hook ,Bob Katsko, Jesse Lajeunesse, Allen Lewis, Shona Pickup. A special thanks as well to friends and colleagues at the Career Centre. Thank you to all the supporters and a special thanks to Dr. Ralph Nilson for his personal donation and promise to join the crew next year.
Tags: In the Community
