Spinning for a cause in Comox Valley

He just keeps on spinning, but it's not just in circles.

He just keeps on spinning, but it’s not just in circles.

Glenn Hascarl, a fitness instructor with the Comox Recreation Commission, is organizing the third annual Spin-a-Thon, a 24-hour spin bike fundraiser with all proceeds raised benefiting the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program.

The organization helps financially disadvantaged kids participate in physical recreation.

“This year, we’ve got a larger facility (Gym A), there will be snacks, a play area for kids, and I’m hoping to have more people stick around to create a social atmosphere,” explained Hascarl.

The event is scheduled for March 1 and 2, beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday and running until 3 p.m. Sunday. There will be a wrapup following the last hour, and Hascarl hopes to beat his goal of $16,000 raised last year.

“The goal this year is to surpass $20,000,” he said. “All money raised in the fundraiser stays in the Comox Valley.”

He encourages riders from all experiences levels, adding participants don’t have to be cyclists or regular gym attendees to join.

People can organize a team from six to 24 people, with an entry of $300/team, or sign up as an individual and join a team.

There is room for 15 to 20 teams, and Hascarl added participants can register by stopping by the Comox Recreation Centre.

The inaugural Spin-a-Thon featured 120 participants and raised approximately $8,000.

To keep participants riding throughout the day and night, there will be snacks and plenty of water to keep riders fuelled, along with prizes.

For more information, to register for the event or to sponsor the fundraiser, contact Hascarl at the Comox Community Centre at 1855 Noel Ave., call 250-339-2255 or e-mail info@comoxrecreation.com.

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Comox Valley Record