Elm Creek's Ride for Raymond brings in highest funding yet for worthy causes

A snowmobile derby took place on February 11 to raise money for a good cause as well as honour the memory of a much-loved community of Elm Creek member.

Ride for Raymond Chair Christine Major says the event remembered Cyril Major whose nickname was Raymond.

"We had 48 registered riders. It was a beautiful day. It was plus-3," says Major. "The money is raised for cancer care and we also pick an organization out of the Elm Creek community. A $1000 is always donated to them. So, this year, we raised $6205.00, which is the largest we've ever raised, and the third time this has been held. $1000 went to the Elm Creek Canada. Day Fund.  $5205 went to Central Plains Cancer Services."

Christine Major

Major explains the funding raised goes to a different group each year.

"The first year was for the Hockey rink, the second year was for the daycare in Elm Creek, and then the third was for Elm Creek Canada Day," continues Major. "2019 is when we first started, 2020 came next, and then due to COVID, we had to hold off for two years. So, we're back."

She says its a wonderful feeling to raise this kind of money and give it to these worthy and important causes. 

"I couldn't be more proud of our community and the people that volunteer because, without them, we can never make this happen," adds Major. "The ride took place at the Elm Creek Community Hall. That's where you started. We arrived just outside of Carman. Then we rode to Roseisle through a new groomed trail, which is wonderful, to Saint Claude and then back to Elm Creek. That was 71 miles."

She says that next year, even if you do not ride and you want to come out and support them, they have a silent auction, 50/50, and a dinner.

"You can come out and buy non-riders hands, if you don't ride a snowmobile, and it all goes to a great cause," adds Major. "The date is not set. It will be it's always January, February, or March. We tried to coordinate it so that it's not corresponding with any other derbies that are happening in the community."

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