News Release
Navy Bike Ride concludes virtual Battle of the Atlantic Challenge
September 1, 2020 – Ottawa
The Royal Canadian Navy has concluded its fourth annual Navy Bike Ride after moving to a virtual format due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Over 2750 riders of all ages from across the country participated in the Battle of the Atlantic Challenge, a free virtual event spanning the summer months.
In honour of the 25,000 voyages Canadian Naval and Merchant Marine Forces conducted during World War II in the Battle of the Atlantic 75 years ago, this free event encouraged participants to help cycle towards the goal of 25,000 rides from June 13 through August 30. Together, participants cycled a total number of 26,270 rides.
Proceeds from the Navy Bike Ride go to help those in need through two organizations dedicated to the well-being of Sailors and Canadian Armed Forces members – the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund and Support our Troops. With generous donations from our participants, the Navy Bike Ride has raised over $57,000 for these charities.
Quotes
“I am thrilled with the success of this year’s event, in these unprecedented times. The support and enthusiastic participation of our riders over the course of the past 11 weeks has been unparalleled and has helped us not only reach, but surpass both our participant goal and fundraising target. The continued support of our community for the Royal Canadian Navy and our charities is humbling and I look forward to next year’s event”
– Commander Gordon Roy, Director of the Navy Bike Ride
“As a BMO team, the Navy Bike Ride is an event we look forward to each year. We’re encouraged to see Canadians from coast to coast coming together in support of military families. It will be exciting to carry this momentum forward and see what we can all achieve together next year.”
– John McNain, Head, Personal Banking Products and Experience, BMO Bank of Montreal.
Quick Facts
• In lieu of physical community events, the fourth annual Navy Bike Ride held the Battle of the Atlantic Challenge, a virtual and free event that encouraged members, families, friends and their communities to go out and cycle.
• Whether indoors or outdoors, cyclists were encouraged to get out and ride, all while respecting the rules of social distancing and maintaining the health and safety of individuals and their communities.
• Participants completed their rides between 13 June and 30 August 2020 to help achieve the goal of 25,000 rides.
Contacts
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
Associated Links
Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund
Support our Troops
