All the Way to Midway

by Dean Marchand, Penticton

Day 2 of the Cops for Kids Ride is in the books, and these old legs definitely felt the miles today… but the heart? Full.

We kicked off the day in Osoyoos, feeling rested and recharged thanks to a beautiful stay at Spirit Ridge Resort the night before. That place is truly something special — the views, the comfort, and the hospitality were top-notch. It was the perfect way to wind down after a big first day and gear up for what we knew would be a challenging climb ahead.

Breakfast this morning was generously provided by the Osoyoos Legion, along with a heartfelt donation to support the kids we ride for. We couldn’t be more grateful.

Then we hit the road — and started the climb up the Anarchist Summit. It’s a name that earns your respect, every single year. Add a layer of smoke in the air, and it became even more of a grind. But no one quit. No one gave up. This team pulls each other along, and we all made it to the top together.

From there, it was a breezy descent into Midway, where we enjoyed a picnic lunch at the detachment provided by the Oliver Lions club. Next after Midway was Deadwood Junction in Greenwood. If you know, you know — the best treats in the region, hands down. A good coffee and energy bars & balls in the tummy, this stop is always a highlight.

Rolling down into Grand Forks is where the speed-lovers get their moment — it’s a fast and fun stretch, and the kind of ride that reminds you how lucky we are to be out here doing this.

But the real heart of the day came when we arrived at the RCMP Detachment in Grand Forks, and got to meet one of the families who’ve received support from Cops for Kids. Seeing their faces, hearing their story — that’s the “why” behind every kilometre we ride. It’s what keeps us pushing up the hills and coming back year after year.

Dinner tonight was at the amazing Omega II Restaurant, where Mike and Andree welcomed us with the kind of warmth that makes you feel like family. The food? Outstanding, as always. It’s a stop we look forward to every year, and they never disappoint.

Tomorrow, we take on the Paulson Summit before making our way into Castlegar. It’ll be another big day, but after the support we’ve felt so far, I know we’ve got it in us.

If you’ve been following our journey and want to help — you can.

Every dollar goes toward helping children in crisis here in our communities.

Thanks for riding along with us — in spirit, in support, and in heart.

— One grateful (and slightly sore) rider