Mackenzie Financial Corp. has issued a challenge to Toronto-area companies to get out from behind their desks, get on some wheels and participate in the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s annual Becel Ride for Heart on June 2.

The Mackenzie Brave Hearts, a 150-person strong team of “tartan-wearing” cyclists and in-line skaters, will be part of this year’s fund raising activity.

Corporate participation is a key component of the Becel Ride for Heart. At least one-third of participants are from corporate teams who together raise as much as half of the revenues at the event — approximately $600,000 for the benefit of the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

“We hope that every company in Toronto — especially our industry competitors — will agree to battle it out,” said Jim Hunter, president, Mackenzie Financial.

“If we inspire at least 10 new corporate teams to join in – we can make a substantial contribution to this very important cause,” Hunter added.

Corporate teams will receive a complimentary breakfast, a front-of-the-line start position, a mounted team photo, team t-shirts with a corporate logo, free massages, free lunch and a participant pack full of surprises.

Teams have until next Friday, May 24 to respond to Mackenzie’s challenge. Interested companies may sign up by calling (416) 486-RIDE.

The Mackenzie team is warming up for ride by taking part in the seventh annual Mackenzie Fundraising Week. The five-day event aims to raise as much as $10,000 internally for the Mackenzie Charitable Foundation, an employee-driven non-profit organization that encourages community involvement and charitable giving. Activities run the gamut from an online auction to an executive dunk tank to employee jousting matches.