In May 2009, the first attempt at The Ultimate Hike For A Cure was unsuccessful, after leaving Hart Plaza in Detroit, MI in March 2009.  This was due to several health issues suffered by the founder and CEO of the UHFAC, Ty Hover. It was also due to many other financial and logistical problems.

 

With these problems being addressed and a new Hike team in place, to give Ty Hover, Founder and CEO, additional support and allow him to concentrate his efforts in the proper places. Ty and everyone at the UHFAC are pleased to announce: 

A second attempt to reach our goal:  Beginning April 9, 2011!!!

 

Many changes have been made. Such as, Ty will NOT be hiking alone on this attempt. The UHFAC is actively recruiting select "Hike Team" members to accompany him on his journey to Alaska and help him raise awareness for diabetes to hopefully inspire others to do something in their community.  Most importantly, show diabetics everywhere that they can do anything while living with the same disorder that Ty has been living with for 30 years.

 

Another major change also concerns the route. Due to the fact that the Trans Canadian Trail (TCT) is not completed along the north shore of Lake Superior, coupled with the fact that it is also very rugged and desolate terrain, we will not be hiking through that area this time around.  The hike will also not begin in Detroit.  Instead, we will begin in Michigan's State Capitol, Lansing. Currently, we are formulating the route and speaking with Michigan State University.  The team is hoping to be able to launch from the MSU main campus in East Lansing.

 

The idea for the new route, will take us due north from the Lansing/East Lansing area to St Ignace. From there we will head due west, along the northern tier of the US. We will then crossover into Canada in either Montana or Idaho (depending upon trails and valleys in the Rocky Mountains). We will then link with the TCT in either Saskatchewan or Alberta.

 

This is a very exciting time at the UHFAC! Our determination and resolve are greater than ever before. We are anxious to apply the lessons learned from the first hike attempt, to make sure we are successful in this attempt and bring our message and goals to the world. Please, follow us on our journey and help us reach out to the world.

Thank You,
Ty Hover Founder and CEO

Interview with Fox 2 News in February of 2009, prior to the first hike attempt: