Albertans Helping Albertans: Parkland On the Run
As warmer weather ushers in summer cycling season in Alberta, a group of determined cyclists gears up for a journey that transcends mere miles. Among them is Simon Scott, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Parkland, and the Captain of the Parkland On the Run cycling team. With the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer on the horizon, Simon shares his insights on the team’s involvement and the deeper significance behind their pedal-powered mission.
“Tour Alberta for Cancer has a high profile in the city, and I have been aware of the charity for a couple of years now. We are delighted to get involved in an official capacity as a Northern Lights partner this year to continue our presence as a corporate team, bigger and better than ever.”
Reflecting on Parkland’s core values, Simon emphasizes their commitment to community support. “At Parkland, our purpose is to power what moves people, and one of the ways we do this is by supporting the communities in which we operate,” he explains. “We are an integral part of the communities we serve and always aim to make a positive impact.”
Cancer’s pervasiveness is what fuels Parkland On the Run’s dedication to the Tour. “Cancer touches so many people,” Simon acknowledges. “As a Parkland team, we’re proud to support family members and friends who have been impacted and also the broader community as we try to better understand and combat this terrible illness.”
This is why, in addition to a financial contribution, Parkland is providing significant cost savings to the Tour by donating product from their On the Run convenience stores and M&M Food Market to support the riders along the route and at camp. Riders can look forward to sampling grilled appetizers and cool treats at a new finish line Pit Stop on Saturday afternoon, staffed by volunteers from Parkland. These tasty treats, backed by M&M Food Market’s Real Food Promise, contain absolutely no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, and will provide a more substantial finish line food option after the challenging first leg of the 200KM Tour.
“Get involved. Choose a distance that works for you. Have fun with your team.”
As Parkland On the Run gears up to hit the road once again, their journey embodies the spirit of unity, resilience, and community. With every pedal stroke, they propel not only themselves but also the collective goal of a cancer-free future, leaving a lasting impact on the lives they touch along the way.