Marathon spin event to benefit Women’s Resource Society for International Women’s Day

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Spinning athletes will raise money for a local charity on International Women’s Day (IWD) by riding on their stationary bikes all day long.

The second annual IWD Charity Ride will take place at Fort St. John’s Vive spin studio on Sunday, March 8th.

It intends to raise $10,000 for the Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society, the same amount which was raised last year.

Located on the second floor of the Pomeroy Sport Centre, the Vive spin studio began in 2021, according to its owner Jessica Prince, who described the place as “a dance party on an exercise bike.”

“We are always trying to give back,” Prince told Energeticcity.ca. “When the opportunity came up to celebrate International Women’s Day, we thought it would be a good opportunity to try and raise money for the Women’s Resource Society.”

With all spots at the day-long event being taken, the event features solo riders or teams of two, each on one of the studio’s stationary bikes.

Each participant must secure sponsorship of at least $300.

Classes throughout the day will run in 45-minute sessions, followed by a 15-minute pause, continuously between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Participants are encouraged to spin throughout the duration, in tandem or solo.

Local eateries have also stepped up to ensure athletes don’t go hungry throughout the marathon session, with The Canadian Grind of Fort St. John, Charlie Lake’s Lakepoint Golf and Country Club and Rebel Fit Nutrition providing meals and snacks during the day.

“The idea is to empower women and show up for each other and support the community while exercising and being surrounded by like-minded individuals,” said Prince.

The International Women’s Day Charity Ride will take place on Sunday, March 8th from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

A Government of Canada website says International Women’s Day is seen as “a time to celebrate the progress made in advancing women’s rights and highlight the ongoing efforts needed to ensure their full participation in all aspects of society.” It was first observed in Canada in 1975.