It was a beautiful day in Quinte West for citizens and military members alike to ride in honour of Canada’s veterans.
On Saturday at 11 a.m., more than 1,500 bikers participating in The Heroes Highway Ride left from the Quinte West Operations Centre on 177 N. Murray St., Trenton, and headed towards Memorial Park in Port Hope.
Riders prepare for bike trip from Quinte West Operations Centre on June 4, 2022. (Photo: Andrew Clarke / Quinte News)
The Heroes Highway Ride is an annual motorcycle ride in honour of Canada’s veterans and first responders. The event had been absent for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Registration for the ride is free. Lou DeVuono, The Heroes Highway Ride organizer, says there will be veteran and first responder organizations in Port Hope who would gladly accept donations for those interested in supporting.
Lou DeVuono, The Heroes Highway Ride organizer, led 1000s of bikers to Port Hope on June 4, 2022. (Photo: Andrew Clarke / Quinte News)
DeVuono spoke on the importance of honouring veterans and the military.
“Respect, gratitude and appreciation for all that they do for us every day, here in Canada and around the world, and over the last two years with COVID. You know, they’ve been called on time and time again. So again, let’s raise, you know, let’s applaud all that they do. Let’s applaud our veterans.”
Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison, left, speaks to riders prior to their departure on June 4, 2022. (Photo: Andrew Clarke / Quinte News)
Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison says the support from the public means a lot, especially being in a “military town.”
“This is fantastic support for veterans, recognized by veterans and civilians both taking part today and showing their heartfelt appreciation.”
Riders leave for Memorial Park in Port Hope on June 4, 2022. (Photo: Andrew Clarke / Quinte News)
The ride has traditionally left the Air Force Museum area on RCAF Road but federal COVID-19 protocols have caused the gathering to be at the Quinte West Operations Centre.
