HURON-PERTH – The Wicked Ride 2021 is set to roll yet again this weekend, with over 100 motorcycle enthusiasts from across the province set to embark on a cruise throughout the area to see just what Huron and Perth counties have to offer.
Once a summer staple of the Perth County Visitors’ Association, the revamped Wicked Ride made its return in 2019 as an annual motorcycle cruise strictly for women riders. Under COVID-friendly regulations for the second straight year, the 2021 edition will see participants depart Listowel Chrysler starting around 9 a.m. on Saturday morning, Aug. 21, visiting area towns such as Milverton, St. Marys, Benmiller and Seaforth.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Mitchell’s Ignite the Fight mental health initiative, which provides supports for those struggling with issues like depression.
“It’s been a particularly tough year for youth,” said Katrina Kerr, a local motorcyclist and Wicked Ride committee member, adding that money raised through registrations costs, silent auction proceeds and business donations “have been amazing” to date. “We want to showcase what Huron and Perth really have to offer.”
Last year, approximately $3,000 was raised for local charities, and Kerr said organizers would like to surpass that total this time around. Registration for this year’s event quickly filled up and was closed, with 100 riders in groups of 25 set to hit the road.
“It would be pretty awesome if people came out to take a look,” said Kerr. “Everybody needs something to do during COVID; there’s going to be a pretty good spectacle going on at Listowel Chrysler. The ladies always love it when people come out, take a look and wave.”
It will be a colourful array of bikers on Saturday morning, as Wicked Ride participants will be decked out in ‘black, pink and bling’ costumes, many with their motorcycles also decorated. Businesses are encouraged to decorate their stores in the same manner, with prizes available for the best dressed.
More information on The Wicked Ride or donation details can be found at the wickedride.ca.
“One of the main focuses is for women riders to come out and have a good time. We’re a minority demographic,” said Kerr, who has been riding since she was 17. “For me personally, the best part is watching all the ladies participating have such a great time. Everyone just lets loose.
“We have people who are already friends in groups, but then we have people come who don’t know a soul. They show up, they get adopted, and you’re not making friends, you’re meeting friends. That’s the environment we have.”
