The team of enforcement cyclists and support crew rolled out of Kelowna Sept. 11 for the 2026 Cops for Kids Ride, an inspiring 10-day journey to raise funds for children facing serious medical, physical, or traumatic challenges.

Proudly presented by the Thomas Alan Budd Foundation, this year’s ride continues a longstanding commitment to supporting children and families throughout Southeastern British Columbia.

The team will cycle down from the South Okanagan through the Kootenays and as far east as Cranbrook, taking on some of the region’s most challenging terrain, including grueling climbs such as Anarchist Mountain and Paulson Pass before returning to Kelowna next Sunday September 20.

Their purpose is simple: to bring hope, relief, and tangible support to children and families in need.

For these riders, the Cops for Kids Ride is about far more than cycling, it’s a commitment to service and a powerful expression of what law enforcement can bring to the communities they serve.

Each rider has personally raised a minimum of $2,500 to join the team. They have trained throughout the year, volunteered at community events, participated in fundraising initiatives, and made personal sacrifices to be away from their families while taking on this demanding journey.

“Our team members go above and beyond not just in uniform, but in how they give back,” said retired RCMP Superintendent Brent Mundle, President of Cops for Kids. “The ride is challenging, but it’s a small effort compared to what the kids and families go through. That’s what keeps the team pedaling.”

The impact of the ride extends well beyond the kilometres travelled. Funds raised by Cops for Kids help provide grants to families whose children are facing significant medical, physical, or traumatic challenges. For many of these families, that support can make an immediate and meaningful difference during an incredibly difficult time.

“It’s about honouring the incredible heart and humanity of our law enforcement,” stated presenting sponsor and philanthropist Tom Budd. “Supporting this ride is about more than fundraising. These men and women choose to serve, and then they choose to ride, to give even more. I’m proud to stand beside them on this journey.”

Throughout the ride, the team will make heartfelt stops in 26 communities, often welcomed by families whose lives have been touched by Cops for Kids. These moments of connection serve as a powerful reminder of why the riders take on the demanding route, regardless of the weather, the distance, or the terrain. “We ride for the smiles, the strength, and the stories of the kids we meet,” added Mundle. “That’s what this is all about.”

Since its inception, Cops for Kids has raised more than $6.8 million to support children and families across southeastern B.C. The organization continues to rely on the generosity of community members, businesses, and supporters to ensure that families facing difficult circumstances can access the assistance they need.

This year, community members are encouraged to donate, cheer on the riders along their route, and join us in recognizing these law enforcement volunteers who are going the extra mile for children in our communities.

Cops for Kids rolls into Creston on Tuesday, Sept. 15 and into Cranbrook on Sept. 15.

On Sept. 17 the ride heads north to Invermere, Golden and Revelstoke with the gruelling day’s end target of Salmon Arm.

To follow the 2026 Cops for Kids Ride, learn more about the route, or donate in support of children and families across southeastern B.C., visit: www.copsforkids.org.

Learn more about the ride’s local event at Tamarack Centre in Cranbrook.

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