2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the Tour Paramedic Ride.
The event was born in the United States, out of commemorations for 9-11, and formal organization followed in this country with the inaugural Canadian event happening in 2013.
Co-founder Norm Robillard gives a shout out to Renfrew County EMS Chief Mike Nolan for his encouragement from the ride’s earliest days.
Robillard says the Paramedic Ride elevates the service and sacrifice paramedics make for our greater well-being.
The traditional Toronto-Ottawa 4-day ride is a staple that has drawn close to 200 participants in the year of its best showing.
The Paramedic Ride assembled on Parliament Hill for a collective photo Tuesday.
The 93 kilometre distance trekked today is basically a side-trip to honour the early and continuing efforts of Chief Mike Nolan.
A 9AM departure from the Paramedic Base on Meehan Street in Arnprior included stops at Burnstown, Pakenham and Fitzroy Harbour before concluding with the planned 3:30 finish at Robert Simpson Park.
The main goal of the Tour Paramedic Ride remains to honour fallen military and civilian paramedics with a National Memorial Monument.
One doesn’t have to be a paramedic to participate; the cycling event is open to anyone regardless of skill, endurance- or profession.
By Rick Stow
