BONNYVILLE - The Rolling Barrage, a cross-Canada motorcycle ride to advocate for PTSD, has rescheduled its Jasper tour stop to Bonnyville.
The event will take place at the Shaw House on Aug. 13, with a pig roast, show and shine, games, prizes, and the chance for local motorcyclists to ride alongside The Rolling Barrage on Aug. 12.
According to The Rolling Barrage, their mission is to advocate for PTDS in the military, first responders, safety community, emergency healthcare providers, and RCMP, create a community of support, and raise funds to support evidence-based programs and organizations that help those who serve the country.
Organizers and local motorcycle enthusiasts Jamie Beaupre and Myrtle Beaulieu with FCSS have stepped up to help make the event happen.
“The Rolling Barrage was scheduled to go through Jasper on their coast-to-coast trip for PTSD awareness for all first responders, unfortunately as you all know that is impossible now, but fortunately they've decided to come back through Bonnyville,” says Beaupre.
Those interested can contact Beaupre for details about riding alongside The Rolling Barrage as an escort, as you must register and meet at a checkpoint.
Organizers are hustling to get everything in order and make a positive event out of the misfortunate rescheduling caused by the wildfires.
According to information from the event organizers, FCSS Bonnyville is co-hosting the show & shine.
Bikes can start parking in front of the Shaw House in the roped off area from 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. People's Choice voting will take place from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and People's Choice Awards will be done at 7:30 p.m. All bikes must be in place by 6:30 p.m. for judging.
“They will be here all-day Aug. 13, and we are planning a fundraiser supper, a show and shine and a meet and greet. Those details will be revealed at the beginning of next week as everything is hashed out,” said Beaupre.
Beaulieu expressed her high regard for The Rolling Barrage, and said she volunteered to help because she believes in their mission to combat PTSD.
“[My partner] Jack and I were introduced to the organization when Warren Cave and his wife Teresa visited Bonnyville to participate in the Canada Day parade back a few years ago. We felt privileged to ride with the group later that summer,” said Beaulieu
“At this point we are trying to secure volunteers to pull this off successfully. I know I've reached out to so many before, and I know we can all make this happen again. Please contact me if you could help out, or if you want to ride,” continued Beaupre.
The MD of Bonnyville offered the use of the Shaw House, and the main parking lot will be roped off for the event. Reeve Barry Kalinski said he thinks it's a wonderful event and has offered his support.
“I am thrilled to reunite with our friends and hear their stories,” said Beaulieu. “Our community's ability to come together and organize such an exceptional event is truly commendable on such short notice. It is an event that should not be missed. If you like motorcycles, you will be treated to many makes and styles. Bring your bike to join in our show and shine.”
