Remembering Raymond: family snowmobile ride raises over $30,000 for charity

The fifth annual "Ride for Raymond" on Feb. 7 drew a record turnout in Elm Creek and raised $7,012 for Central Plains Cancer Services, while the event has now raised $30,834 since it began in 2017.

The fifth annual Ride for Raymond took place on Feb. 7 in Elm Creek and attracted a record turnout despite thin snow cover. The event was created by the family of Cyril Major, an avid snowmobiler who died of cancer in 2017, to honour his memory and raise funds for cancer support. Organizers moved the derby headquarters to Haywood Hall this year and kept the event running with help from local volunteers. The fundraiser included a poker ride, a silent auction and a community lasagna supper. Event details: - The ride was a 52-mile poker derby and was based at Haywood Hall this year. - Organizers reported $7,012 raised for Central Plains Cancer Services and $1,000 for the Snowflies Snowmobile Club to support trail grooming. - Since 2017 the Ride for Raymond has raised $30,834, with more than $25,000 directed to cancer organizations. - Local groomers worked through the night before the event to prepare trails amid low snow conditions. - The fundraiser included a silent auction and a sold-out lasagna supper for 100 people, and non-rider hands were available for community participation. - The family brings Cyril Major’s 1999 Arctic Cat ZR700 to the ride each year as a tribute. Summary: The Ride for Raymond has become an annual community fundraiser that channels local support into cancer services and trail maintenance. It has raised more than $30,000 since its start and continues to draw participants even with challenging snow conditions. Undetermined at this time.