On September 14, 2023, the wheels were turning and hearts were racing in Ontario as the Special Olympics Truck Ride celebrated its incredible 20th anniversary. This year, the event raised an astounding $110,000, bringing the total to an eye-popping $1.35 million since it all began in 2005. With 75 drivers from nearly 40 companies taking part, this was a day to remember!
A Rolling Celebration of Hope
The convoy kicked off from Paris, Ontario, with trucks lined up and ready to roll. As the engines roared and horns blared, you could feel the energy in the air. This wasn’t just about the trucks; it was about a community coming together to support young athletes with special needs. It’s a mission that has only grown stronger over the years.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey hasn’t always been smooth. The COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into things, with virtual events and no-contact rides in 2020 and 2021. Donations dropped to just $19,000 and $27,000 during those tough times. But the spirit of the trucking community never wavered, and they came back strong!
Looking back to the first ride in 2005, where 59 trucks raised $33,000, it’s clear how far this event has come. Organizer Tammy Blackwell notes, “The number of trucks may fluctuate, but the support stays steady. Our biggest year was 2019 with 133 trucks.”
Drivers Rising to the Challenge
One of the most exciting parts of the Truck Ride is the friendly competition among drivers to bring in the most pledges. This year, the top three drivers collectively raised over $23,200! Brian Hilton from J&D Gleeson Trucking took the lead with an impressive $8,435 in pledges, while Kent Dowling from AMJ Campbell came in second with $7,470, followed closely by Evan Hens, also from AMJ Campbell, with $7,300.
Hilton has claimed the lead position four times now—clearly a driver with passion!
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
Many of this year’s participants were also present at that first ride in 2005, proving the deep roots this event has in the trucking community. Among them were Brian Hilton and Matt Morrison, who have been there since day one. Their commitment to the cause speaks volumes about the culture of giving within the trucking industry.
Tammy Blackwell recalls how the event started: “My partner, Michael Gower, was inspired by a Special Olympics event in Florida back in 2001. He worked tirelessly to organize our first ride, and it’s just snowballed from there.” It’s a testament to how one idea can turn into something life-changing for so many.
A National Movement
This year’s event was just one part of a larger movement. Truck rides for Special Olympics are happening across Canada, including recent events in Prince Edward Island and Manitoba. These convoys collectively raise hundreds of thousands of dollars, fueling the dreams of athletes across the nation.
The legacy of the first convoy, started by Corporal Norm Schneiderhan in Florida, continues to inspire truckers everywhere. Even though Norm passed away in 2022, his spirit lives on through these events, reminding us all of the power of community and compassion.
What’s Next?
As we look ahead, the excitement doesn’t stop here. Other provinces are gearing up for their own truck rides, with Nova Scotia’s event just around the corner. They’ve been making waves, consistently raising over $150,000 in recent years and drawing in huge crowds.
At the end of the day, this is about more than just trucks and money. It’s about the drivers who take a day off work, the volunteers who put in countless hours, and the community that rallies together to support a noble cause. They may leave with just a T-shirt and a warm feeling, but the impact they make is immeasurable.
So here’s to the next 20 years of the Ontario Special Olympics Truck Ride! Let’s keep those wheels rolling and continue making a difference for the athletes who inspire us all. Are you ready to join the ride?