CORNWALL, Ontario – About 50 riders were ready to rev their engines and carry the Special Olympics torch from the Cornwall Civic Complex on Saturday, June 22.
Det. Cst. Matt Dupuis was excited with this year’s turnout and weather.
“We raise money for Special Olympics so local athletes can go to the games and support them,” said Det. Cst. Dupuis, who has been supporting Special Olympics for the past 12 years and organizing the Torch Ride for the past four.
Riders paid a minimum of $25 per individual to participate, or a minimum of $30 for a rider and passenger. Further donations were accepted and those who raised the most had the opportunity to win prizes for their generosity.
“It has been going on for several years now…we are going to raise a lot of money for Special Olympics (this year),” said Det. Cst. Dupuis triumphantly.
Det. Cst. Dupuis explained that riders would be taking the back roads together in a ride of comradery, making a stop in Cardinal, and meeting up with Ottawa and Kingston riders and in Prescott for a charity BBQ.
“If you ever went to one of the (Special Olympics) games and saw these athletes compete its just unbelievable. They’re not supported by any government grants or anything so we have to support them. By running events like this, it’s raising extra funds to bring (locals) to the games and put smiles on their faces,” said Det. Cst. Dupuis.
To find out more about the Torch Ride or donate, visit their website here.
