Written by Courtney Jones
At GGA, some of our strongest bonds are built beyond the studio walls. One of the most meaningful? Riding 200 kilometres through the Southern Alberta foothills in the Tour Alberta for Cancer.
This July 19–20, Team GGA will return for our 7th consecutive ride. We’ll cycle 200 kilometres over two days to support life-saving cancer research through the Alberta Cancer Foundation. It’s not just this vital cause that keeps us coming back year after year. It’s the people. The energy. The shared purpose. The stories that move us, the support that lifts us, and the sense of connection that lasts long after the ride ends.
More Than a Ride: A GGA Team Tradition
The Tour Alberta for Cancer has become a cornerstone of our culture at GGA. It’s woven into our summers; a tradition that blends challenge with purpose and camaraderie with compassion. What makes it so meaningful? The people who show up. Our team trains together, sweats together, and supports each other in ways that go far beyond the bike.
From early training rides to the final stretch, the Tour brings us closer. First-time riders are welcomed with open arms, and longtime teammates become mentors. We swap snacks, share sunscreen, and shout words of encouragement that echo long after the weekend is over. Camping out under the stars is always a highlight, as is laughing through sore muscles. This is team building at its most genuine.
“My favourite memories are always riding with our GGA team. Riding for that long in the hot summer in the prairies is a great way to build bonds. Of course, the highlight of each day is coming up the last hill to see the finish line.”
From early starts to post-ride dinners, the Tour deepens the relationships that shape how we work together. Collaboration, trust, and care begin on the road and carry into our studio, making us a stronger team with every kilometre. The way we show up for each other on the road carries right back into the studio. It makes us better, together.
Lessons From the Road
Each year, the Tour teaches us something new. And not just about cycling. These lessons stick with us long after the jerseys are packed away.
The Tour Alberta for Cancer teaches us to pace ourselves, to lean on each other, and to stay grounded in our purpose. These lessons show up in our work, our culture, and our approach to challenges.
Whether it’s your first Tour or your seventh, a few things always hold true: train smart, ride together, and remember your why.
Encouragement often proves just as powerful as preparation. Even off the bike, the values that guide us; connection, creativity, and community continue to lead the way.
Advice from our seasoned riders:
Train smart. A good road bike, a proper fitting, and at least one 60-kilometre training ride can make all the difference. Preparation helps you ride longer and recover faster.
Gear up. Padded shorts are essential. Bring more snacks than you think you’ll need, stay hydrated, and fuel up before and during the ride.
Pace yourself. Slow down, take in the views, and give yourself space to enjoy the ride.
Lean on your team. Whether you’re new to long-distance cycling or a returning rider, the encouragement, stories, and mid-ride snack breaks from your teammates make a big impact.
Ride together. The magic of the Tour is in the shared moments. It’s less about speed and more about connection.
And most importantly, ride with purpose. This isn’t just about the kilometres. It’s about honouring loved ones, supporting those still in the fight, and showing up for something bigger than yourself.
Riding for a Cause That Hits Close to Home
The Tour might be one of our favourite team-building weekends, but for many of us, it’s also deeply personal.
“I’m riding again in honour of some special people in my life who’ve been impacted by cancer — especially my childhood best friend, Kayla. She was diagnosed with a rare form of sarcoma in 2019. Despite multiple surgeries and treatments, she passed away in the fall of 2022. Kayla stayed positive and hopeful even during the hardest times, and she continues to inspire me — not just in everyday life, but in my drive to support others going through cancer treatment.”
– Erin Jensen
“I have participated in every ride for GGA. Rick Lewis, one of our partners, introduced the idea — he was an avid road rider, and we all knew someone impacted by cancer. That first year, I rode for a friend who passed away from pancreatic cancer. Since then, we’ve lost both Rick and Sandra McLeod to cancer. Now I ride for them — and for the hope that others can survive a cancer diagnosis.”
– Wade Wheeler
Everyone on Team GGA has a reason to ride. Some ride for loved ones, others to stand in solidarity. But no matter the motivation, we ride together for brighter outcomes, stronger communities, and a future shaped by compassion, research, and resilience. This shared purpose is what unites us, inside and outside the studio.
Why We Keep Showing Up
The Tour Alberta for Cancer isn’t just a fundraising event. It’s a reflection of who we are at GGA. A team that shows up with heart. A culture rooted in support, trust, and community. A group of passionate people who believe in meaningful work and standing together for something bigger than ourselves.
This year, Team GGA is aiming to raise $100,000 in support of the Alberta Cancer Foundation. Every dollar funds research, treatment, and patient care that changes lives across the province.
Whether you cycle, donate, volunteer, or cheer us on, you’re part of this journey. Thank you for helping make every kilometre count.
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