The American Lung Association is set to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the iconic Trek Across Maine, scheduled for Father’s Day Weekend, from June 14-16. The event will kick off at Thomas Point Beach and Campground in Brunswick, with overnight locations at Bates College and St. Joseph’s. The route traverses some of Maine’s most charming small towns, farms, lakes and scenic views.
The Trek Across Maine is a fully supported route that offers music, games, beer from local breweries, a baked potato bar, a finish line dinner, and more. Over the past four decades, the event has raised $31 million. It aims to invest $750,000 annually to support research for lung disease and clean air advocacy efforts. The funds also support programs and services that educate communities about lung health, vaping dangers, lung cancer screening importance, asthma education and control in schools among other initiatives.
Dr. Peggy Pennoyer, Chair of the American Lung Association Maine Leadership Board said: “Thanks to all of our amazing volunteers and our Trekkers, we are truly making an impact for lung health and healthy air. We are so proud that over the past 40 Treks, we have raised over $31 million to help end lung disease – and we plan on continuing this momentum from the starting line to the finish again this year!”
The Trek Across Maine is traditionally a three-day cycling event covering 180 miles. It starts at Thomas Point Beach & Campground in Brunswick with overnight stops at Bates College in Lewiston and St. Joseph’s College in Standish before returning to Thomas Point on Sunday for a lobster bake and BBQ finale.
In addition to the in-person event, there is an option to participate virtually by recording miles from one's own neighborhood or stationary bike at their own pace.
The event welcomes cyclers aged seven years old and above. Children between seven to twelve years old must ride a tandem or tag-a-long bike with an adult guardian. All children under the age of 18 must always have an adult guardian with them on the route.
Online registration is open until May 20. To register as a Trekker for the Trek Across Maine or to support the event by making a donation, visit the event website at TrekAcrossMaine.org. Volunteer opportunities are also available.
