SASKATOON — In its second year running, Lawson Heights Mall hosted a car show, which was also a poker stop for the Ride for Dad motorcycle parade, which has run for the last 15 years. The event served a dual purpose — not only did it provide an opportunity for guests to check out classic cars and trucks on display, but it also raised funds for prostate cancer research. The event was inspired by and held in partnership with the Saskatoon Motorcycle Ride for Dad.
Saskatoon Motorcycle Ride for Dad said in a social media post that it raised $100,000 with around 220 riders who started at the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon and made the Rad Dad's Car Show one of their first stops. Nationally, the event to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research is in its 25th year.
Jessica Siemens, marketing manager for Lawson Heights Mall, told 麻豆视频, “Lawson Heights Mall takes great pride in being a part of the community and giving back however we can. We have been hosting a number of different fundraising events over the years, and we asked ourselves how can we do more for Ride for Dad and grow our participation during the event. The idea of a car show was a natural complement to the motorcycle parade and with such an active car community throughout the province it was a no-brainer.”
While registration was received ahead of the show date, Siemens said a number of vehicles also arrived the day of the event. Last year, 68 vehicles were on display, though some came and went throughout the day, so that number is not entirely accurate. More than 200 motorcycles also came through on their ride.
“With the event being so new, we are still in our learning phase. Although we will always be limited by space, we hope to be able to grow the event in other ways in coming years. We are working with the Shifters Car Club directly for the event, however it is the whole Saskatoon car community that's really helping out,” added Siemens.
Hundreds of guests strolled through the Lawson Heights parking lot on June 14, perusing the cars and chatting with owners.
Joe Chubak of Saskatoon proudly chatted about his wife's 1940 Dodge Coupe, noting that while it was her vehicle, he loved being the passenger and promoter. The couple said they participate in a number of car shows throughout the year but specifically chose this one because of the cause it supports.
Established in 2009, the Saskatoon Motorcycle Ride for Dad has raised more than $2 million for the fight against prostate cancer. The proceeds from the annual events are invested in ground-breaking research and life-saving public awareness campaigns about the disease and the importance of early detection.
