Olympian Clara Hughes will stop in Red Deer as she cycles across Canada to raise awareness about mental illness.
The six-time cycling and speed-skating medallist began Clara’s Big Ride for Bell Let’s Talk in Toronto on March 14 and wraps up in Ottawa on Canada Day.
Her 110-day journey will take her to 95 communities along the route.
Hughes will be in Red Deer at Parkland Mall on May 31 and June 1.
Family Services of Central Alberta and other local groups are organizing two events using the tag line, Clara’s Big Ride Hits Red Deer.
Details are still being sorted out but Judy Scott, manager of children and youth services said the event is shaping up to be an awesome party.
“It’s about promoting mental health,” said Scott.
“We are looking at it as a way to talk about mental health in a positive and upbeat way.”
Hughes is likely to arrive from Calgary around 5:30 p.m. The celebration will get underway at 4 p.m. and run until about 6:30 p.m.
The next morning Hughes will give a youth-geared breakfast talk at the mall starting at 8:30 a.m.
Scott said they are seeing more people and young people in particular struggling with mental health. She said it is important to celebrate good mental health, support those who are struggling and take away the stigma.
For more updates visit www.fsca.ca or for more information on the ride visit www.clarasbigride.bell.ca.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com