Mason’s connection to the Tour began in 2017, when her dad, who was living with kidney cancer, signed up to ride. He embraced every part of the experience, from training to fundraising to standing on stage at the opening ceremonies, sharing his story with thousands of riders and supporters.
“He was so excited, he wouldn’t stop talking about it,” Mason remembers. “He loved being part of the ride.”
The following year, Mike passed away. For Mason and her family, the Tour had become a powerful symbol of strength, love, and hope — and she made a promise to keep showing up.
“It’s hard coming back every year,” Mason says. “But at the same time, it’s really impactful and important.”
For years, Mason supported the Tour from the sidelines. But when she saw that her employer, ATCO, had formed a team, something shifted.
“I’d always thought about riding, but I was too nervous to do it. Then I saw ATCO had a team, and I thought ‘That’s it. I’m getting a bike.’”
With the encouragement of her colleagues, Mason joined Team ATCO and took on her first ride this year. What started as a daunting challenge soon became a source of strength and belonging.
“To get the support from my colleagues, too, to ride in this event — it was just amazing. It meant a lot.”
Crossing the finish line, Mason was met with cheers from her mom, sister, and boyfriend. It was a moment filled with pride and emotion.
“If my dad was here today, he’d be right beside me,” she says. “I can still hear his voice in the back of my head.”
Beyond the personal triumph, Mason’s ride carried a deeper purpose. She knows firsthand the impact of the funds raised through the Tour, having spent countless hours in hospitals while her dad underwent treatment.
“This event and the funds raised helps get someone through all those treatments. It’s needed. My dad was one of those people.”
For Mason, the Tour is about more than the miles covered. It’s about community.
“It’s an emotional event, but we’re all here for each other. We’re riding for a common goal,” she shares. “It means a lot to be part of the community now.”
With the support of her family, her colleagues, and her dad’s memory, Mason will continue to ride — powered by purpose, backed by ATCO, and united with thousands of Albertans working toward a future free from cancer.
Join the Tour. Join the community.
Check out Team ATCO’s fundraising page for Alberta Cancer Foundation to donate or join their team in 2026.