Constable Kyle Hicks, a dedicated police officer from Duncan, British Columbia, is taking on a new challenge. This year, he’s trading his uniform for cycling gear to take part in the 2025 Tour de Rock. The event is part of Cops for Cancer, a well-known charity ride that raises money for children with cancer.
Hicks grew up in Duncan and now raises two young children of his own. When he heard about the chance to join the Tour de Rock team, he didn’t think twice. Despite having a full schedule, the decision came easily to him.
“As soon as I attended the first meeting, I knew I couldn’t say no,” said Hicks. “If I were a parent with a sick child, not knowing what the next day might bring, I would want all the support I could get. That thought made me realize my busy life couldn’t compare. I have the choice to help, so I took it.”
Hicks has been serving the community for five years as a constable with the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP. His job often brings him into contact with people facing difficult moments in their lives. He tries to treat each person the way he would want his own family to be treated.
“We meet people on some of their worst days. If I can make it just a little easier for them, that means something,” he said.
Though new to cycling, Hicks has embraced the training with energy. Apart from one fall on a hill, which he jokes is just part of learning, he’s enjoying the process. The toughest part has been finding the time. Some of the group rides are held in Saanich and northern parts of the Island, turning a single session into a half-day event once travel is included.
Outside of work and training, Hicks enjoys hiking, running, and spending time with his friends and family. He believes that taking time to unwind is important in a high-stress job like policing.
“It’s good to step away from the job now and then and just be yourself,” he said.
The 2025 Tour de Rock begins in Port Alice on September 20 and ends in Victoria on October 3. Since its start in 1997, the ride has raised over $56 million for pediatric cancer support. Each rider is asked to raise at least $5,000, which helps send children with cancer to Camp Goodtimes in Maple Ridge. The camp offers these kids a chance to enjoy summer in a safe, supportive setting.
Hicks and his teammates recently visited the camp. Though he hasn’t yet met his honorary rider—the child he’ll ride for—he was moved by the experience.
“What stood out the most was the kids cheering for us without being asked. That was really touching. It felt like we should be the ones cheering for them,” Hicks said.
Cancer has touched Hicks’s life personally. His grandmother fought stage four breast cancer and is now in remission. A close friend is currently battling lung cancer.
“No matter who you are, cancer reaches everyone,” said Hicks. “Family, friends, it’s all around us.”
What Hicks enjoys most about the ride is the strong sense of community. He values the connections he’s made during training and is inspired by the people who come out to support the cause year after year.
“It’s rare these days to see that kind of support continue year after year,” he said. “But for this cause, it keeps happening.”
Hicks has set a bold personal fundraising goal of $50,000. He’s already off to a strong start, thanks to generous support from the community. Anyone who wishes to help can donate online by searching for his name on the official Tour de Rock donation page.
“It’s a fun adventure and a great way to give back,” said Hicks. “I like to challenge myself and meet people. Even going door to door for donations has been a great experience.”
With heart, courage, and a cause close to home, Kyle Hicks is ready to ride for change—one pedal at a time.
