“Tour de Force” Kicked Off as Cyclists From Various Areas Came Together to Pay Tribute to Fallen Officers

In the heart of Mindemoya, the serene landscapes of Manitoulin Island played host to an inspiring and emotional gathering. The event transcended all geographical boundaries and officers and cyclists from different corners of the province came together for cycling at the remarkable event.

To honor fallen heroes, Manitoulin Island has recently united officers and cyclists in a Tour de Force inaugural ceremony.

Officers and cyclists pedaling for a purpose

Cyclists from Toronto to Timmins converged together to pay the Tour de Force tribute, celebrating the heroes in life. It was an event filled with resilience and reverence as cyclists and officers remembered those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Back in 2020, an honorable Manitoulin Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer lost his life in the line of duty. The funds that would be gathered by this event, Tour de Force; Heroes in Life Cycling Series would go. OPP Youth Foundation.

Cyclists would have the opportunity to embark on a 140-kilometer-long journey encircling the picturesque landscapes of Manitoulin Island.

An OPP Commissioner, Thomas Carrique shared with CTV news, “…police officers are looked at as role models in some communities and for some people, they’re actually held up as heroes … When we have an opportunity make a difference in a young person’s life, it can have a tremendous impact.”

Timmins Police Service Chief, Daniel Foy said, “When the passing of an officer happens on duty, we all feel it. … It’s important for us to come together at the time and at future events to keep their legacy alive”

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During the inaugural session of the event, five bikes were presented to deserving children of Manitoulin Island. The kids were more than happy to receive the bikes. One of the kids, an 11-year-old named Allie enthusiastically said, “I might take this bike up to my great-grandma’s and show her how nice this bike is because usually I bike up to my grandma’s”.

Marc Hovingh Memorial Ride to grow in significance

Back in 2020, the force tragically lost a dedicated Manitoulin Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer, Marc Hovingh. 

About 10 months after Marc Hovingh’s death, his friends, family, and strangers came together for a ride to remember Marc. The event was planned by the wife of Marc Hovingh, Lianne Hovingh as a fundraiser program for benefiting the youth.

The Hovingh family extended the ride to not only pay tribute to Marc Hovingh but also to remember all the fallen officers. Lianne Hovingh expressed her gratitude and mentioned that the event not only extends support to the fallen officers but also to the survivors of law enforcement, the partners of the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Tour de Force united the heroes of past and present, establishing a profound legacy of unity and resilience amongst all. Share with us your views regarding this event in the comment section below.

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