NFB Filmmaker-in-Residence

PEDAL PUSHERS

January 15th, 2007

Pax in our film Bicycle, is not the only hero-bicyclist at Dignitas International.

Scott Simpson is a Canadian HIV+ triathlete. Scott’s dream was to cycle 13,000 km across the continent of Africa in support of Dignitas. To prepare, Scott did a series of endurance events, including the Ironman trialthaon. But the gruel began to take a toll. During the Ironman, Scott’s body gave out as he collapsed during the race, and was rushed from the course by ambulance. On that day, his dream to cycle across Africa ended.

So students at U of T picked up where Scott left off, and together they created the Race for Dignity. Volunteers pedal on stationary bikes to raise funds for Dignitas to complete Scott’s unfinished 13,000 k.

And on a tv-screen nearby, Pax rides along.

This year’s event starts on Wednesday at campuses across Canada. Check out the deets here.

Entry Filed under: HIV, The Bicycle