A team of Intelexians participated in the Becel Heart & Stroke Ride for Heart on Sunday, June 5, 2011, and the weather could not have cooperated more. Clear, sunny skies and warm temperatures made ideal riding conditions as Toronto shut down the Don Valley Parkway and Gardiner Expressway for the annual event.
Demonstrating our commitment to healthy lifestyles, Team Intelex flexed its leg muscles and assembled the finest team of cyclists/athletes to participate in this worthy cause. The team got off to a slow start trying to meet up at the Better Living Centre Corporate check-in. Latecomers and a delicious breakfast of cheese omelette and sausages resulted in miscommunication, a late team photo session, and people being missed at the starting gate.
Once together though, the Intelex peloton shifted gears and refocused its energy to set off on their respective 25- and 50-kilometre routes. The morning ride was a wonderful success. As Intelex Project Manager Ryan Brodie noted: “Perfect weather, great company, and a fantastic cause. What more could you ask for?”
More than 13,000 cyclists participated on Sunday event which, in its 24th year, raised $3.9 million for the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
“We together fundraised $986.00 as a team,” explained Intelex President and CEO Mark Jaine. “Our goal was $1,000.00, but as a company, we successfully surpassed that goal since Intelex matched our contributions.”
The biggest show of appreciation however was for Gretchen Herrada who organized the Intelex team.
“Thank you Gretchen for organizing such a successful event!” said Account Manager Rafi Yablonsky, with Project Manager Claudio Shimabukuro adding “I am looking forward for the next event!”
Application Developer Richard Fenn summed up everybody’s sentiment by proclaiming “I enjoyed the part with the bikes”.
Thanks to all the participants, sponsors and organizers!
