Cyclists pedal past fundraising goal for Caledon seniors

By Zachary Roman

Cyclists were all smiles as they pedalled for miles in support of Caledon seniors on July 1.

For Caledon Community Services' (CCS) annual Velocity Ride, which began in the morning on Canada Day, riders gathered at Caledon's Town Hall in Caledon East. There, they could register their teams if they hadn't yet, partake in a generous spread of breakfast food and beverages, or make last minute bicycle repairs. For when riders would return later in the day, lunch was provided, and complimentary massages too.

Riders of all ages and skill levels participated in the event, and chose from routes of 10, 25, 50, or 100 kilometres in length. Each group was given a send-off and began their rides together.

Susan Vint, who has run an accounting business in Caledon for over 30 years, entered this year's Velocity Ride with her friends Debbie Dale and Tina Liegghio. Dale said she first let Vint know about Velocity, and explained CCS has helped out her mom and husband. Dale and her teammates said the Velocity Ride is a great way to give back to the community, get out and have fun, and see people you haven't seen in a while.

Melina Zammit, a university student who volunteered at the Velocity Ride, was the event's official photographer, and said her experience volunteering with CCS was really good. Zammit said everyone was so excited for the ride this year.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Velocity ride had to be held in a virtual format. This year, riders were happy to be back together in person.

Ted Web is a champion of the Velocity event. Last week prior to the ride, the Citizen profiled his extensive fundraising efforts, and Webb's team, the Terra Cotta Trailblazers, ended up as the number one fundraisers for the 2022 Velocity Ride.

It was his fourth Velocity Ride, Webb explained, but he's been riding bikes for his entire life. He moved to Terra Cotta 22 years ago, and said there's not a road in Caledon that he hasn't ridden his bike on. He commended the Town of Caledon for adding bike lanes when they have redone roads in recent years.

Webb was the event's highest male fundraiser, bringing in a total of $4,288.50. Maria Marignani was the event's highest female fundraiser, bringing in $2,000. They were both awarded gift bags from Caledon Hills Cycling for their efforts. 

Norman Wolverton, the rider who got the most single donations with 33 as of July 3, was awarded a gift card to Glen Echo Nursery. Team Agalateya, captained by Mohamed Abdelwahab, had the highest number of riders with 29. They received a gift card to the Consulate Dining Room at the Royal Ambassador Event Centre.

CCS Director of Communications and Marketing Donna Cragg called team Agalateya's number of riders phenomenal.  

“In addition, there was a flurry of door prizes,” said Cragg. “The business community really stepped up generously with the prizes… awarding the highest number of donations and the team with the most riders really epitomizes the heart of the event. It is all about helping community and supporting our seniors.”

As of July 4, almost $58,000 was raised for Caledon seniors from this year's Velocity ride, well over the goal of $50,000.