One Week Away: Meet the Heroes Behind the 2025 Cops for Kids Ride

By Retired Staff Sergeant Major, Ride Captain Julio Krenz

As another summer winds down, I find myself reflecting with deep pride and appreciation. This year marks a remarkable milestone — the 25th Anniversary of the Cops for Kids Ride, proudly presented by the Thomas Alan Budd Foundation.

Twenty-five years of law enforcement officers going above and beyond.
Twenty-five years of serving not just with duty, but with heart.
And twenty-five years of riding — not for glory — but for the kids.

In just a few days, our 2025 team of dedicated officers and supporters will set off on a ten-day journey across southeastern BC. They’ll ride over mountains, through towns, and long rural stretches — raising funds and awareness for children facing medical, physical, or traumatic crises.

This year’s group is exceptional. They’ve balanced demanding careers, family responsibilities, and rigorous training schedules to prepare for this ride — all while fundraising tirelessly to support families in desperate need. I’ve worn the uniform myself, and I can tell you: what they’re doing now is nothing short of heroic.

Their motivation is simple but powerful — they ride for the kids who can’t.

Throughout their journey, they’ll face physical and emotional challenges: long days, changing weather, and the emotional weight of hearing families’ stories. But with every mile, they ride with purpose — knowing their efforts are changing lives.

This 25th anniversary is more than a celebration. It’s a legacy of compassion, commitment, and community — one that continues because of the tireless work of our officers and the generous support from people like you.

Those who:

Join us at community stops
Follow their ride on social media
Read their daily blog posts
Donate to their individual pledge pages

We warmly invite you to be a part of this legacy. Come cheer the riders on, wave from the sidewalk, or make a donation to help them reach their goals. Every dollar helps provide critical support — from travel and accommodations for medical treatment to essential equipment, therapies, and more.

To our generous sponsors — including Thomas Alan Budd Foundation, Harmony Honda, Prestige Hotels & Resorts, Stutters Restoration, the Creston Charity Foundation, and Tamarack Centre — thank you for standing with us on this journey.

To our 2025 riders — thank you for continuing a proud tradition of service. To our communities — thank you for always answering the call.

It’s my honour to introduce you to our 2025 Cops for Kids Ride team:

Cst. Troy BEVAN

Cst. Kelly BRETT

Insp. Rob CROWDER

Cpl. Andrew DEANE

Cst. Blake DE LA PERRELLE

Cst. Robyn DIDDAMS

Cpl. Emma DYER

Cpl. Tania FINN

Ret. Cpl. Dirk FINKENSIEP

Spencer FROST

Cst. Ron GEORGE

Ken GEORGESON

Marc GRUBER

Gail HARRISON

Ret. S/Sgt. Kelly HUNTER

Cst. Tyler HUG

Courtney KING

Dean MARCHAND

Steve MERCANDELLI

Investigator Kelsey MOORE

Cst. Nick REIMANN

Sgt. Laurie ROCK

Cst. Liz VANT ERVE

Cst. Jared ZEEMAN

And to those reading this — if you can, please donate. You’ll be making a real difference in the lives of children in crisis.

Let’s make this 25th year one to remember.
Together, we ride. Together, we give. Together, we make an impact.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Retired Staff Sergeant Major Julio Krenz