The sound of hundreds of motorcycles echoed through Gimli on Saturday as the Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad rolled through town, part of the annual provincewide fundraiser to fight prostate cancer.
Former Gimli mayor Randy Woroniuk helps direct motorcycle traffic in Gimli during the Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad on Saturday. The annual fundraiser drew over 1,200 riders in support of prostate cancer research
The May 31 ride attracted more than 1,200 registered riders who departed from Winnipeg’s Polo Park and travelled through several Manitoba communities, including Selkirk and Gimli, before returning to the city. Now in its 17th year, the event raised over $600,000 — bringing the ride’s total fundraising impact to $5.7 million since its inception.
“It’s a good cause and a reason for a bunch of people to get together,” said Scott Mullen, who made the trek with his 12-year-old son Jake. The father-son duo enjoyed a free burger after arriving in Gimli, part of a lunch served to the first 500 riders courtesy of Lakeview Hotels, a major event sponsor.
“As a tourism partner, it’s important for Lakeview to support the Ride for Dad along with other events including the Icelandic Festival, the Gimli Film Festival, MS Biking to the Viking, and the Ice Festival to promote the town as a destination,” said Lakeview’s Vice President of Operations Chris Miller. “We have been involved with the Ride for Dad since the beginning. It’s a great cause and always an exciting day for the community, supported by our great local volunteers that make these events possible.”
The annual ride is part of a six-week campaign to raise awareness about prostate cancer, which the Canadian Cancer Society says is the most common cancer affecting Canadian men. One in eight men will be diagnosed with the disease, and one in 30 will die from it.
Gimli residents lined the streets to show their support as the parade of riders rolled through. Volunteers also helped make the day possible, including former Gimli mayor Randy Woroniuk, who was spotted helping with traffic direction. While similar events take place across the country, funds raised in Manitoba stay in Manitoba, supporting local research and education. Proceeds from this year’s ride will go toward work being done at Winnipeg’s Genomic Centre for Prostate Cancer Research.
Organizers praised the hospitality shown in each community along the route — with Gimli once again serving as a memorable stop for many riders and supporters alike.pation year after year.
