Politicians Take to the Road for Best Buddies

First Annual “Motorcycle Ride with Best Buddies” a roaring success Best Buddies

The road between Ottawa and Smiths Falls, Ontario was filled with the sound of thunder on June 6th, as dozens of motorcycle enthusiasts took park in the first ever “Motorcycle Ride with Best Buddies”.

The idea for the 181 kilometre ride was conceived by David Sweet, MP for Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale and David Anderson, MP for Cypress Hills-Grasslands, both motorcycle enthusiasts, who wanted to get together fellow riders among Hill staff and MPs while also helping raise funds and awareness for a charitable cause close to their hearts.

“I’m impressed with the work Best Buddies does to build friendships between young people and individuals with intellectual disabilities. That’s so important,” says MP Sweet. “The ride is a fun way to support Best Buddies while enjoying the camaraderie of the surprising number of riders on the Hill.”

Among the guests were a number of MPs, including David Sweet, David Anderson and Scott Reid and Hon. Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

Participants and spectators donated more than $9,000 in support of the Best Buddies program. Giant Tiger was lead sponsor for the event.

Participants gathered at the Canadian Aviation Musuem and enjoyed the sunny weather as they travelled to Smiths Falls for a fish-fry lunch, provided by the town’s fire department.

Best Buddies is appreciative of the support from the Parliamentarians and the Town of Smiths Falls. A number of schools in and around Ottawa host the Best Buddies program, and the organization recently surpassed 175 chapters across the country.

“Everyone was great to work with,” said Best Buddies Executive Director Steven Pinnock. “The residents of Smiths Falls were very excited to have us there and welcomed us with open arms. The support of people like Mr. Sweet, and everyone at the ride, helped us raise awareness and funds for our program.”

Plans are already underway for the 2nd annual Motorcycle Ride with Best Buddies.

“The event seemed to go really well with everyone being really positive,” said Elaine Mallory, Director of Administrative and Planning Services, for the town of Smiths Falls. “I think it bodes well for next year’s event”

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Motorcycle Ride Highlights Unique Friendship Program New to Region - Smiths Falls EMC