Tillsonburg's 46th annual Great Ride 'n' Stride
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A sunny Sunday saw a great payday in the fight against cancer.
Tillsonburg's 46th annual Great Ride 'n' Stride to Beat Cancer raised $9,462 with some additional money still to come.
Melissa Boesterd, president of the Tillsonburg branch, Canadian Cancer Society, was high in her praise of the participants, young and old.
"It was great to see new participants joining the veterans in the event," she said. "It's really nice to see so many children walking with their parents. We certainly hope it will become a tradition for them. It's a great event to raise money to fight cancer, through awareness and prevention, ongoing research, educational projects and providing help to patients. You do it while enjoying a leisurely walk around scenic Lake Lisgar."
Topping fund-raisers this year were:
Ann Phipps Memorial Trophy, top individual, Bill Pratt $3,120.
Jeff Squires Memorial Trophy, business team, Coward Pharmacy $1,740.
Madge Montgomery Memorial Plaque, family team, McLaughlins $2,050.
BDA Insurance Team Plaque, community group, Mount Elgin United Church $1,105.
Honorable mention went to Trinkets Gift Shop and the Ormerod family.
As a special added feature of the event, Janis Cunningham, manager of the Oxford County CCS unit, was on hand to honor two veteran members of the society. Awards and long-service pins were presented to Bill Pratt, 55 years, and Marion Pratt 50 years. The Pratts were involved with helping Madge and Bob Montgomery in organizing the first Great Ride 46 years ago, and have continued to play an active role ever since.