Follow Ramesh's Journey

A full day of Cycle to Walk community engagement activities took place all because of the hard work of David and Gen Woods and the Rotaract Club of Winnipeg. Rotaractors, Rotarians, and people from around the city met at the East Gate of Assiniboine Park to cycle with me to Oodena Circle at The Forks. Cycle to Walk rode through the leafy streets of Winnipeg in style with a full escort. It was wonderful to have members of the Winnipeg Police Service there to ensure everyone’s safety.

While at The Forks, there were opportunities for speeches, donations, media interviews, and t-shirt selling. Thanks to everyone who came out for taking the time to share in the Cycle to Walk campaign and for helping to spread our message. I would like to acknowledge Akela McMullin for taking on the role of MC, David King, president of the Charleswood Rotary Club, for cycling ahead to take various pictures, and Victoria Lehman, president of the Winnipeg Rotary Club, for presenting a cheque on behalf of her club. John Dahl also joined the ride with his partner Amy to represent Polycast International, which is a Cycle to Walk Silver Spoke Sponsor.

After lunch, it was off to the Manitoba Children’s Museum, where Cycle to Walk put on a unique information session and Chris treated everyone to some crazy juggling acts and balloon animals. While Chris entertained the children, I demonstrated the hand cycle and spoke with parents about Cycle to Walk, polio, and the importance of immunizations. Later, I attempted to make a balloon animal, but only ended up making sausage links! The Children’s Museum is such a great place! With such friendly staff and great volunteers, I’d recommend it to any family living or visiting in the Winnipeg area.

By late afternoon, the whole team was so exhausted that we all took an hour-long power nap before heading off to a BBQ hosted by the local Rotaract Club. This evening was an evening to celebrate, as the club changed leadership at their annual changing of the guard. The team had a chance to share the message of Cycle to Walk, and I even got to make spider wienies - my favourite BBQ treat. Thanks so much to the Rotaract Club of Winnipeg for your donation, your leadership and your organization. You are truly making a difference in the Winnipeg community and you have certainly warmed the hearts of the Cycle to Walk team with your kind hospitality!