COLD LAKE – Engines roared and spirits soared in Cold Lake on June 21, as the 10th annual Lakeland Ride for Dad brought hundreds of motorcycle riders together for a cause close to many hearts—fighting prostate cancer.
Held by the 784 Wing Airforce Association of Canada, the event featured a scenic 300-kilometre rural ride through northeastern Alberta, with stops in Bonnyville, Derwent, and St. Paul before returning to Cold Lake. Riders were treated to a hearty breakfast, courtesy of Cornerstone Co-op, with steak or chicken dinners, live music from Bonfire Moon and Berlyn, and a strong sense of camaraderie.
“We're having our 10th anniversary, we're really excited about that,” said Jan Stewart, co-chair of the Lakeland Ride for Dad. “The weather has been nice to us and we're asking everyone to sign two books... for the two founding fathers 25 years ago... Byron Smith and Gary Janz.”
Stewart added the strong safety record of the Lakeland ride, which has seen no accidents or incidents in its eight active years, minus the two years cancelled because of COVID. “It's been very well coordinated and we're pretty proud of the fact that people want to come back,” he said, noting participants from Fort McMurray, Edmonton, Provost, and Lloydminster.
While the ride’s scenery and entertainment drew crowds, its purpose remained the focus: raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer research and support. All proceeds at the event go to the House of Valour in Edmonton, and every volunteer worked at the event unpaid.
Mayor Craig Copeland attended the event and addressed the crowd before kickstands went up. “I just want to wish all the riders a great day out there and enjoy yourself. Hopefully the weather will be okay for you all,” he said. “For us men, prostate cancer is a big deal... From City Cold Lake, we're a proud sponsor and let's keep it going.”
The Lakeland Ride for Dad is part of a nationwide network of over 26 rides across Canada, which have raised more than $43 million in 25 years. Riders can continue to support the cause at ridefordad.ca/lakeland, added Stewart.
