$76,676.56 raised for Prostate Cancer through the Northern Cancer Fund
(Thunder Bay, ON) – In its 19th year, the Tbaytel Motorcycle Ride for Dad welcomed 209 riders and 18 passengers and raised $76,676.56, bringing the 19- year total to $1,154,572.56. All funds raised through the Northern Cancer Fund support prostate cancer education, care and research in Northwestern Ontario, with 100% of funds staying local.
The event is a favourite among riders for its camaraderie, along with the opportunity to get out for a great ride. Starting at the Victoria Inn, the ‘Roar for the Cure’ signalled the start of the day with hundreds of motorcycles simultaneously starting their engines and then taking off for a parade throughout the city. Following that, participants took to the beautiful countryside in and around Thunder Bay for a Poker Run, returning back to the Victoria Inn for awards to round out the day.
Always held the day before Father’s Day, the event is a perfect opportunity to celebrate men and encourage conversations about prostate cancer. Glenn Craig, President and CEO, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation, said, “When this Ride first got started, there was a real hesitation among men to discuss many health issues, especially related to prostate cancer. Thanks to this Ride and other initiatives like Prostate ManTM, our community has embraced the discussion and men have a much greater level of comfort talking about prostate cancer, and more importantly, taking action to maintain their health and well- being. The good news is that, when detected early, prostate cancer is highly treatable. Thanks to the proceeds from this Ride, our community can feel assured that we have exceptional equipment available if it’s needed.”
Tbaytel has led the way in sponsorship for the event for several years and is a cornerstone in philanthropic support for healthcare in Northwestern Ontario. “Tbaytel is thrilled to once again lend our support to the Motorcycle Ride for Dad,” said Tbaytel president and CEO Dan Topatigh. “It’s an exciting event with a longstanding history of success in our community and even more importantly, it’s an event that raises much-needed funds and support for men and their families in the fight against prostate cancer in northwestern Ontario.”
Along with supportive sponsors, a large portion of the Ride’s success comes from riders and participants who work tirelessly to raise pledges in advance of the Ride. This year, the team of Equipment World (Lyle, Scott and Peter Knudsen) earned the title of top pledge earner, collecting $10,600 in pledges. The total pledges raised this year was $34,965, with 18 people raising at least $500. Those who raised over $500 received free registration to next year’s ride.
The funds raised support the Northern Cancer Fund of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation. 100% of proceeds remain in our region to fund prostate cancer research, diagnosis and treatment in Northwestern Ontario. Equally as important as the amount raised is the prostate cancer awareness generated by the Tbaytel Motorcycle Ride for Dad.
Together, we are making HOPE possible.
