Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 13 A beautiful summer day greeted riders for the 4th Annual Motorcycle Ride for Dad, on Saturday June 16th, 2012. The weather cooperated and so did the participants, as 553 motorcyclists filled the Western Development Museum parking lot, a true army of Chrome and Leather. The WDM provided an excellent facility for the Ride with registration taking place inside the Museum lobby, and breakfast served by WDM staff. Souvenirs and 50/50 tickets were available outside with Rock 102 FM providing live hits from their location just outside the front doors. A program of speeches preceded the Parade, with two of the funding recipients of the Saskatoon Chapter of the RIde for Dad explaining what the research funds are being used for. The Saskatoon Chapter is very proud to provide funding to these two research programs, which are happening right here in Saskatoon. The Mayor also stopped by to bring greetings from the City, as did several MP’s and MLA’s, who spoke on behalf of their constituents. At 10:45, the Parade of motorcycles, led by Saskatoon Police Service Traffic Unit members Sgt. Dan Bryden and Cst. Hector Janzen on their brand new Harley Davidson Road King’s, left the WDM for the Lawson Heights Mall. Once again, SPS members of Traffic, CRU and Patrol ensured a safe trip through the city, which provided maximum exposure for the riders. The Ride for Dad is very appreciative for the support of the Saskatoon Police Service. Once at the Lawson Heights Mall, riders were able to pull their first poker card. The poker run proved very popular this year, with over 400 riders taking part. Proline Motorsports also hosted a poker stop this year for the first time. The next stop was Blaine Lake for lunch. The town of Blaine Lake closed down Main Street for the bikers and the riders filled it up. Randy from Saskenergy barbecued the burgers once again this year and judging from the burger shortage that occurred, they were well received. After lunch it was off to Hafford for ice cream. Hafford also closed Main Street for the bikers and the ice cream was a welcome treat on a hot day. Hafford was the last stop before our final destination of North Battleford. The Gold Eagle Lodge in North Battleford hosted the closing ceremonies for this year’s event. The Battleford group did a real nice job of organizing the windup and was well attended. All in all, it was a very good day. 553 riders raised $157,722.10 in pledge money. Including corporate sponsorship and expenses, the Saskatoon Motorcycle Ride for Dad was able to add $181,086.00 to the education and research fund! Saskatoon now makes up 9.8% of the national income! More information can also be found at www.ridefordad.ca. Continued on Page 15 MOTORCYCLE RIDE FOR DAD
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