The second annual Ride for Rebound took place on Saturday, May 28, 2022 with a number of cyclists travelling through the hills of Northumberland County.
Starting at 8 a.m. at the Northumberland OPP station in Brighton, Cobourg Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf along with four other cyclists from the Cobourg Cycling Club headed out on their journey of over 100 km travelling through every township and municipality in the County.
“I’m really happy to know that every municipality in Northumberland County has dedicated May 28 as Ride for Rebound Day across the County,” VandeGraaf said before the start.
The ride was presented by Play It Again Sports and the goal of the ride was to raise money as raise awareness for what Rebound Child & Youth Services Northumberland does, including the need for timely, quality mental health support for children and youth across the Northumberland County.
Every dollar raised through the Ride for Rebound goes directly to supporting children, youth, and families in Northumberland County.
VandeGraaf who trained for the event, hadn’t been on his bicycle for the last 10-days due to a bout of COVID so he wasn’t sure what to expect at the start of the ride.
“The first bit is going to be a challenge, but we have some great folks from the Cobourg Cycling Club that I’m just going to tether onto the back of their bikes,” VandeGraaf said with a smile.
The group was joined by a number of other riders including Cobourg councillor Nicole Beatty and Executive Director of Rebound Child and Youth Services Northumberland, Carol Beauchamp as they ended their journey at Play It Again Sports on William Street in Cobourg around 2 p.m.
“It means such a lot to Rebound. All the municipalities have supported the Ride for Rebound and letting people know that Rebound exists. Having the Chief, the riders from Cobourg, Councillor Beatty come out and Play It Again Sports – we are so grateful.”
VandeGraaf said the ride was a “challenge” for him, but when he thinks about the benefits the children at Rebound will receive it’s well worth it and looks forward to next years Ride for Rebound.
Play It Again Sports also presented a cheque for $1,000 to Rebound for programs.
Rebound supports over 1,400 clients throughout Northumberland County every year, working with people from every community. Ranging in age from 7-18, the children and youth are provided with excellent programs and services that help them find motivation for the future, and paint the picture of a bright path ahead. By taking a holistic approach to generating this success, clients and their families can grow together through the ripple-effect of these programs and services.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
