After months of dedicated planning, the Farley Foundation proudly kicked off the 2024 Ride for Farley on Sept. 14 in Milton, Ont., bringing together animal lovers and supporters for a memorable day of cycling and community.
The day began with our team cheering off animal lovers cycling for pets in need and ended on a high note with crowds of supporters joining us for a celebratory gathering. Together, we raised more than $66,000 for people and pets in need!
For those who were unable to join us, here’s a recap of the remarkable day.
Nine cyclists (and one dog) cruising around Milton in record-breaking time
With the sun shining and spirits high, nine cyclists (and one loyal dog) took to Milton’s scenic roads for a 50-km ride in support of pets in need. The riders were divided into two teams: Team Green, with five cyclists, set off at 9:20 a.m., followed 10 minutes later by Team Blue, which included four riders and Abby the dog. While it isn’t a competition, we want to highlight that our first group of riders broke a record by returning in less than three hours!
Adding to the day’s success, three more supporters participated remotely, cycling in their own communities.
A special tribute to a beloved colleague
This year’s Ride for Farley commemorated a very special colleague, Dr. Dave Heaton of Three Island Veterinary Services in Bobcaygeon, Ont., whom we sadly lost earlier this year. Dr. Heaton was an avid Farley Foundation supporter, participating in the Ride for Farley for 10 years and raising more than $20,000.
To pay tribute to his legacy, a group of Dr. Heaton’s family and colleagues came together in Peterborough, Ont., to honour and celebrate his life. Ten individuals from the group rallied together to raise more than $8,000 and cycle 40 km along country roads, while the remaining group of Dr. Heaton’s loved ones, including his beloved dog Pickle, walked along the river.
“It was a very memorable day to honour Dave among his co-workers and family,” says Dr. Tamara Lightbody, participant and Dr. Heaton’s colleague.
To further honour Dr. Heaton, a custom paw print with his initials was printed on each rider’s jersey.
A barbecue celebration to mark the occasion
After the cyclists completed their journey, the celebration continued with a lively barbecue at our office. Guests enjoyed delicious barbecue dishes, live music from a DJ, complimentary pet photos, face painting and an array of games and family-friendly activities. We were also honoured to welcome Milton’s Mayor, Gordon Krantz, and MPP Zee Hamid, who joined us to show their support and take part in the festivities.
More than 100 supporters joined us at the event, taking the opportunity to meet our team, learn more about the foundation’s mission, and connect with fellow animal advocates. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who came out to support this new initiative, cheer on the cyclists, and show their dedication to making a difference for people and pets alike.
Over $61,000 raised to help people and pets in need
We are so excited to announce that our 2024 Ride for Farley and community barbecue raised more than $66,000 – over $20,000 more than last year!
This is an incredible accomplishment, and one that we couldn’t have achieved without the support of our sponsors, cyclists, community members and vendors. A huge thank you goes out to VetCPA, Three Island Veterinary Services, Dechra, IDEXX, Reflex Integrated, Smokin’ Bones BBQ Catering, DJ Ugo Flo, Right Choice Children’s Entertainment and Happy Tails Pet Photography for their contributions to this extremely successful event.
Help make a bigger impact
Although this year’s event has come to a close, the opportunity to make a difference continues. Contribute to the Ride for Farley campaign by making a gift online or exploring other ways to support the Farley Foundation. Every donation helps pets in need.
We’re already looking ahead with excitement to next year’s Ride for Farley! Keep an eye on our events page for updates and join us in changing lives for pets and their families.
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