The Epic Kickoff to Our Great Bike Adventure
Gratitude to the Sandman in Kelowna for the hospitality today and Kush for going above and beyond to ensure we had what we needed to fuel our bodies for the start of this 10 day journey.
With the team all gathered out front and an array of emotional speeches, 8:30 send off down Harvey Avenue towards West Kelowna. With a couple ‘loud bangs’ and Robs bike tire refusing to cooperate, mechanical issues started early but were quickly overcome.
The heat was already felt by all of us, and with Gevan’s amazing motorcycle skills to ensure our safe travels, we carried on to our first stop in Peachland.
Unfortunately, the start of the trek result in a couple damaged bikes, but nothing that a call to the Bike Barn in Penticton couldn’t handle.
We meet an amazing young 10 yr old in Peachland that utilized Cops for Kids to request a mobility stroller that would assist his family in the day to day care. And the generosity of the Rotary Club providing a donation and the amazing people lining the streets in support of our ride; waving and giving thumbs up. This was alot to take in.
As we continued on to Summerland, the highway cars continue to honk in support and we rolled into the Legion where we greeted by more amazing families and a BBQ Lunch. As this is my first ride, I was starting to really understand the impact that this event has on families and hearing their stories are just amazing. One young recipient, who skipped food class in school to come meet the riders today, provided a cash donation that one would assume was from her savings.
Then off to Penticton. What a feeling riding into a city you police and community you are engaged in to support this amazing cause. I honestly can’t put words to it. Many City officials and more exceptional little ambassadors attended the Detachment and the parents emotion and gratitude were genuine and moving.
The team then ventured on the well known Eastside road trek with the beautiful views of Skaha Lake and ending down into Okanagan Falls. Unfortunately, with the road work south of town, the highway was unsafe to ride on a bike and the vehicles were loaded up. With only a minor delay in maneuvering through a three way stop, the team safely traveled outside of Oliver and again regrouped on their bikes and road through the town of Oliver to the Fire Hall. Again a group waiting for the teams arrival, clapping and providing a well needed water break. Another family came to share their story and the impact this cause can have. More donations and prepared bagged lunches for the team to enjoy the following day. The generosity continues.
Osoyoos Elks Hall being the final destination for the day, the team made a strong ride along the highway and was greeted with a home-cooked dinner. Another cheque donation from the Elks and what appeared to be an endless amount of dessert options. I can definitely say that we never went hungry today.
Again being my first day, first ride with amazing fellow riders, I was overcome with emotion.
To be continued tomorrow ..with sunshine and a hills!
Sgt Laurie Rock
Penticton Rider