'Ride of the Mustang' makes a return next week

George McDougall High School's 'Ride of the Mustang' is returning next week for the 14th time. The event will be taking place from March 26 to March 28.

'Ride of the Mustang' is an annual fundraiser where teams of students gather in the gym and ride stationary bikes over three days. In 2011, a student from the high school was diagnosed with cancer which inspired the very first event.

This year, the goal is to once again fundraise $50,000 for the Alberta Children's Hospital, stated Kelsey Ahluwalia, a teacher facilitator of the event. Last year they raised close to $60,000. Over the 14 years of doing the event, over $1 million has been fundraised. 

"The funds go towards the oncology unit. Right now, they're currently using it for research of different ways to treat cancers" 

"The students are super excited. We have team costume contests as well; so, they're busy planning out what their costumes will look like. Also, depending on how much money they raise, they're allowed to bring a variety of items into their spots - like couches or televisions, so  they're fundraising frantically."

Ahluwalia truly believes this is one of the best things the school does every year.

"It brings the students together, whether you're athletic, academic or musical, they are all on teams together. Especially for teenagers, it's important to realize sometimes that there's more to life than just going to school and doing that day-to-day stuff."

Back in 2014, the high school was awarded "The Spirit of Generosity Award for Philanthropic Group". They were also awarded the "Top School Fundraiser" award from the Alberta Children's Hospital in 2022.

If you would like to donate to the cause, click HERE.

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