April 19, 2022

A resounding success for the 2nd edition of the Opération Enfant Soleil Gran Fondo presented by Familiprix and Desjardins

Over $255,000 raised for the well-being of the province's children

Québec City, March 24, 2022 - On the eve of the 35e Telethon, which will take place on June 5 live from the Théâtre Capitole, Opération Enfant Soleil is extremely proud of the amazing success of the 2nd edition of the Gran Fondo that took place last Saturday. Presented by Familiprix and Desjardins, the largest virtual bike challenge in Québec raised over $255,000 for the well-being of children!

In teams or solo, on a bike with a trainer and in a virtual environment, participants were invited to raise funds for the cause and ride together from one to three stages totalling more than 292 kilometres and 1160 metres of ascent. The challenge was carried out on the Zwift platform and broadcast live on YouTube. The public was able to follow the challenge throughout the day, which was hosted by Camille Dg, spokesperson for the cause, along with the campaign’s heroes.

A huge thank you to our important partners, including Familiprix, Desjardins, Bain magique, BDC, JZQc, Moose Bicycle, Oberson, Reboost and Décathlon, all the participants, people who encouraged them by giving generously, and all sponsors. The determination of more than 397 cyclists and the solidarity of 48 teams will contribute to the mission of the Fonds sport et santé durable d’Opération Enfant Soleil, which promotes and supports healthy lifestyle habits among children through sports, physical activity and healthy eating. Its goal is also to cultivate emotional and mental wellness.

Good news! The 3rd edition of Opération Enfant Soleil's Gran Fondo is now confirmed. It will be possible to register as early as next winter. Stay tuned to operationenfantsoleil.ca/granfondo (french only) for more information!

About Opération Enfant Soleil

For 35 years, Opération Enfant Soleil has been bringing Quebecers together to support the cause of sick children, regardless of their illness throughout the province. From awareness to prevention as well as through investigations, diagnoses, equipment used during treatment, and ambulatory care at home, Opération Enfant Soleil helps children and their families every step of the way. Thanks to the funds raised, about a hundred projects are carried out each year in regional hospitals, where children can be cared for close to their families, as well as in large pediatric centers, which can be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and welcoming spaces. Money is also donated to organizations each year for more than 50 projects related to the prevention of illness among young people through physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits. To date, close to $288 million has been donated across Québec thanks to the generosity of donors, support of volunteers, and dedication of partners. For more information, visit www.operationenfantsoleil.ca/en.

- 30 -

Source

Samantha Munoz Comeau
Advisor, Communications and Public Relations
Operation Enfant Soleil
Cellulaire : 581 996-0622 | scomeaumunoz@operationenfantsoleil.ca