On the surface, it may seem like a fun day in the sun, but the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Big Bike is particularly important in Chatham-Kent.
"Chatham-Kent has the number one heart attack rate in Ontario," said area coordinator Lea Wilson. "Most of the money raised will stay in the community and go towards education and research. It is very important to keep the awareness and education level top of mind, especially in Chatham-Kent."
On Thursday afternoon, seven teams took part in the fundraiser, with the goal of raising a total of $7,000. However, Wilson said any amount would be appreciated considering the city's current situation.
Chatham-Kent not only has the highest rate in the province, but according to the Southwest Ontario Stroke Network, it has the second highest in the country.
Wilson said each team registered was encouraged to hold fundraising activities leading up to the event. She added a monetary goal is set for each squad, but there was no fee to register.
The first team to ride was The Real Canadian Super Store. Captain Josh Lacina said it was the store's first time participating, but the team jumped at the chance to help the community.
"Heart and Stroke [Foundation] has been a big part of Chatham-Kent for a long time and it is a great cause," Lacina said. "Anything we can do to help out feels like it goes a lot farther than it looks on paper."
According to Wilson, the ride is roughly 2 km in total and the bike only makes right-hand turns, so it doesn't interfere with traffic too much.
"Safety is number one," Wilson said. "Nothing is labour intensive either. We sell it as 'if you want to raise some money, have some fun and make some noise, you can ride Big Bike.'"
Teams started at Frendz Restaurant on King St. and turned onto 4th St., Wellington St., and 3rd St., before ending back at their starting location.