As far as Christine Perham is concerned, there’s never been a better time to bring awareness to people’s lungs.
That’s why the Greenfield resident is once again participating in the 180-mile Trek Across Maine, albeit virtually, this spring. Perham will ride for the American Lung Association by herself in the Pioneer Valley, instead of with a pack of fellow cyclists in Maine, meaning her 24th year riding in support of lung health will look significantly different than past excursions.
“This year, with everything surrounding COVID-19, I thought it was particularly important to raise money for the American Lung Association,” explained Perham. “When you find out about the breakthroughs their own doctors are making, it’s important to support that work and raise awareness for lung health. With people staying inside, there’s less pollution in the air and it’s actually showing that the quality of the air has been better.”
Perham first rode in the 180-mile race, which is normally held over Father’s Day Weekend, in 1986. Her father was a smoker who had emphysema, and when she learned more about the event, she decided to make it a consistent part of her schedule. While she hasn’t raced every year since 1986, she has been heavily involved.
“When I first started, it was more playful and had a much younger crowd but it’s now become a family reunion because the same people show up every year,” she explained. “For three days, you have this crew that you ride with, eat with, do everything with. All kinds of people do it, on all sorts of bikes. You’re all in this thing together so there’s this great sense of community.”
The unpredictability of June weather in Maine makes for some interesting rides as well.
“You might get head winds some days and then the next day it’s 80 degrees,” she offered. “It’s Maine.”
The race has also served as a reunion for Perham and her best friend, Maureen Townsend, as the two have done the race together over the years. While Townsend, who lives in Maine, won’t be taking part in Perham’s solo virtual ride this year, the two always look forward to seeing each other in Maine.
“That’s our weekend together,” Perham said. “We’ve always done it together.”
In keeping with the spirit of the race, Perham is still fundraising for the American Lung Association leading up to her ride. She’s trying to reach a goal of $1,000, and interested parties can donate online at the Trek Across Maine homepage by searching for Christine Perham.
“I’m going to be riding alone so it does take a lot of self-motivation but I don’t feel pressured to do it. I want to do it,” she said.
The race itself continues to serve as motivation for Perham, who said getting out and riding during the time of COVID-19 is particularly important.
“I need a goal for me to do something,” she began. “It’s been a great motivator for me over the years. I haven’t quite figured out how I’ll spread the miles out here on my own yet. It probably won’t look like a traditional ride but I’m still looking forward to it.”