The parking lot at the IOOF Seniors Home was full of motorcycles and riders ready to get their motors running and head out on the highway for a great cause this weekend.
The 14th annual Young at Heart charity ride for seniors roared out of the parking lot at the Brooks Street on Saturday to help raise money for those in the facility who need it most.
IOOF manger of revenue development Micheline Robichaud told BarrieToday that the run reached their target of raising $20,000 and that many riders have a personal connection to the event.
“This is a non-profit senior care facility, so the Young At Heart Ride helps us raise additional funds for our residents here,” she said. “The wonderful thing is we have a number of riders who have loved ones here or who did at one time. They continue to come out and ride for us, give us their time and money while enjoying the scenery of Simcoe County.”
More than 60 riders rode through Creemore to up around Blue Mountain and then into Collingwood and Wasaga Beach before heading to a hall for lunch.
Riders also received breakfast and dinner and the chance to win prizes in draws.
Wayne Greer, 72, has been riding for the event since 2005. He told BarrieToday he hasn’t been riding a motorcycle long, but loves to help others in doing so.
“Riding was on my bucket list,” said Greer. “I didn’t learn to ride until I was 50, so I’m a late bloomer.
"Riding for events like this make you feel good helping others, you never know when you’re going to need a hand yourself," he added.
