1.2K turnout for Motorcycle Ride for Dad fundraiser

The 17th annual Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad took place on May 31, 2025. (MRFD)

Poor air quality and raging wildfires didn’t stop 1,200 motorcycles from revving up for the 17th annual Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad (MRFD) – an annual fundraiser for prostate cancer research.

Organizers said this year’s event took in more $600,000 bringing the 17-year fundraising total to $5.7 million dollars with all proceeds staying in Manitoba.

“The great weather was a factor in another amazing turnout of Riders and spectators,” said MRFD co-chair and founding member, Moe Sabourin. “Each year, the support from Manitobans is incredible. Thank you to all registered riders, pledge donors, sponsors, media partners and volunteers. Special thanks to our Regional Presenting Sponsor, the Winnipeg Police Credit Union.”

Starting from Earls Polo Park, riders looped from Portage Avenue to Assiniboia Downs, to Selkirk, Gimli and then back again in a police escorted parade.

As announced during the 2024 event, Minister for Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) Matt Wiebe was on hand to unveil the official Manitoba Motorcycle Ride for Dad licence plate.

“Our government is honoured to support Ride for Dad and unveil our province’s newest specialty license plate, in support of a cause important to so many Manitoba families,” said Wiebe said in a press release, “To support the Manitoba Prostate Cancer Support Group, $30 from every plate purchased will be donated to assist Manitobans impacted by this terrible disease. This annual ride has raised millions of dollars to help families across the province, and we are proud to stand with Ride For Dad in support of their continued fundraising efforts.”