The weather was perfect last Saturday for the Legends Car Club annual Drive for Cancer fundraiser in support of South Central Cancer Resource (SCCR).
With the sun shining and a convoy of classic and modern cars winding through southern Manitoba, the event was about more than horsepower and nostalgia—it was about hope, community, and compassion.
“It was a great day for it,” said organizer and club member Lyle Dunsmore. “We went first to Morris, then had lunch in Carman at Syl’s, and stopped at Morden Nurseries between Morden and Winkler before returning to Altona for a barbecue supper at the fire hall.”
The Drive for Cancer has been an annual tradition for more than 20 years, raising funds and awareness for SCCR, an organization that provides essential services to cancer patients and their families.
Money raised goes directly to support patients through SCCR’s transportation program, which is its largest initiative. Last year alone, SCCR provided over $175,000 in mileage reimbursement and transportation costs—all thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 70 volunteer drivers and coordinators.
“People donate at the different stops along the way,” explained Dunsmore of the drive. “I’m always amazed by the generosity. Some people just walk up and hand over a cheque, even if they weren’t planning to take part. One gentleman I’ve known for years came with his old car, just to give us a donation. He’s been dealing with cancer for two years, and he made a point of showing up. That really puts a face to the cause. I couldn’t stop thinking about it.”
While fundraising is the mission, the day is also about connection and camaraderie.
“When we get to drive our old cars, hang out with each other, and eat twice—it doesn’t get better than that,” laughed Dunsmore. “We had people show up who we’d never met, like two young guys from Rosenort with a Dodge truck, and even a couple of fellows from Winnipeg who didn’t have classic cars but wanted to tag along. That kind of spirit is what makes this event special.”
The event isn’t exclusive to classic car owners—anyone can join in, admire the lineup of vintage vehicles, enjoy a hot dog and a drink, and make a contribution.
“This cause hits close to home,” said Dunsmore. “We’ve had many club members pass away from cancer in recent years. It’s personal. We’re not just raising money—we’re standing beside people in our community who are going through the toughest time in their lives.”
Dunsmore expressed deep gratitude for everyone who donated, participated, or helped make the day a success.
“Every year I say the same thing: all we are is a vehicle to encourage people to make a donation. And every year people come through for us. Someone will walk in off the street, hand over a cheque for $400 for a hot dog and a drink, because they’re thinking of someone they lost. That means something.”
Dunsmore hopes, between last weekend’s Drive for Cancer and an upcoming Legends Car Club fundraising BBQ this coming Saturday, May 31, at Hometown Service in Winkler, they would be in the neighbourhood of $25,000 raised total. That BBQ will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
