THUNDER BAY – Around 200 people participated in the 22nd annual Tbaytel Motorcycle Ride for Dad on Saturday.
The ride started at the Superior Inn Hotel and Conference Centre on Arthur Street. There was a short parade, and then motorcyclists did a scenic poker run around Thunder Bay.
Jim Engelman, who has served on the organizing committee for more than 15 years, knows firsthand the importance of raising funds for prostate cancer.
“You know, I got lucky and got through it,” he said.
Engelman said it’s “awesome” to see so many people come out to support this important cause each year.
“It’s a good way of raising funds to help out in the future. Technology is changing all the time so it's something that you have to be striving for to get the funds in there so we can keep moving forward,” he said.
All of the money raised goes to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.
Haley Werbowetski, events officer with the foundation, said this year the funds will go towards a prostate cancer drug.
“We have a $50,000 fundraising goal that we're looking to reach. As of right now, the pledging is sitting at just under $30,000."
The most touching part of the day is the Roar for the Cure, where all of the motorcyclists rev their engines before heading out on to the road, she said.
“I didn’t think motorcycles could make me cry and then I heard the roar for the first time last year and it was such a powerful moment,” Werbowetski said.
Kai Knudsen, who raised the most money at around $7,000, said he participates every year with his dad and grandfather, who have been in the ride for the last 20 years.
“It’s my second year doing it,” he said, adding that his uncles also participate.
“It’s a really good cause.”
Knudsen rode his grandfather’s 2007 Harley Davidson Road King. He said there’s something very freeing about riding a motorcycle.
“You’re out there on the open road – especially when you can do it with friends and family.”
If you would like to make a contribution, visit ridefordadtbay.ca.
