Three and a half years ago, people in the
Richmond School District and beyond lost a good friend and colleague.
Lorne Bodin was an inspiring husband, father, teacher and friend and those of us who knew him or had the pleasure of working alongside him, miss him greatly. After losing his battle with stomach cancer, a large group began riding in his memory in the
BC Ride to Conquer Cancer (something that Lorne was passionate about). A few of us continue to ride, and if interested, you can make a donation
here.
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| Team Bodin 2011 |
After doing the Ride to Conquer Cancer for two years, we felt we should do something local that could be enjoyed by a larger group. Last year, we hosted the first-ever Lorne Bodin Bike Ride. Over 80 participants enjoyed a 25 kilometre route around Richmond, and returned to Burnett Secondary School for a social barbecue, visiting and remembering our friend. We raised almost $2000.00 for scholarships that are now being given out in Lorne's memory, and decided to make the ride an annual event. This past weekend another large group of his friends and family got together for the Second Annual "Bodin Bike Ride" to remember Lorne, celebrate the way he lived his life, and raise some money to help students looking to further their education.
A great time was had by all as we enjoyed the scenic ride and got a chance to talk about the way Lorne treated others, how he would do anything he could to help anyone in need, and how his legacy is strong because he inspired so many to lead positive, helpful and selfless lives.
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| Lorne's wife Jan and brother Greg |
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| Some opening words |
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| Lorne's brother Greg thanking people for coming |
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| A group shot before the ride |
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| Jim Allison getting ready to go. |
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| On the road... |
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| More riders on the Railway bike path |
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| Rob Laing directing traffic |
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| At the half-way mark |
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| The Laing clan handing out snacks |
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| Everyone having fun |
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| On the way back... |
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| Lorne's Mom and the BBQ crew (Thanks Jason Davidson!) |
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| Almost done! |
A huge
'Thank-you' goes to
Deb Wheeler-Brown for the fantastic photos and another to all the people who contributed in the various ways they did to make the event a success. We would also like to acknowledge
Jason Davidson of
M&M Meats in Richmond for doing the barbecue for us. If you are ever hosting a fundraiser/social event with a barbecue, he is the person to contact!
We look forward to doing it again next year. Save the date of the Saturday after the Victoria Day long weekend. It promises to be another fun-filled, healthy way to reconnect and remember a great man.
