2024 Opportunity Road Ride
BIKING FOR BURSARIES
Brian Smeenk, President, Merit Award Bursary Program has just completed the Opportunity Road Ride! He completed his 2.500 km in a solo ride throughout Southern Ontario on September 8. All to raise $80,000 for Merit Award Bursaries for students in the GTA.
Thank you to the riders who joined us to welcome Brian Smeenk home on September 8. To date we've raised just over $61,000. We're nearly there so please consider donating to help us reach our goal.
Why Am I Riding Again?
Talent is evenly distributed.
Opportunity is not.
One of my core beliefs is that hard work and perseverance are keys to success. When one achieves one’s goals that way, it brings a lot of satisfaction.
I’ve been amazed by the students we have helped through the Merit Award Bursary Program. The Program is immensely effective in motivating young people to overcome challenges and work hard to pursue a good post-secondary education.
Last year, we raised more than $75,000 for bursaries. It was long and challenging; however, thinking of my goal to encourage and support more local students helped me push through. And in this past June, when we celebrated our 300 recipients I knew that I wanted to do another Ride this year!
This year, I will ride 2,500 km around Southern Ontario to raise $80,000 and increase awareness of the Program. And the more people we can get helping “our students” reach their academic destinations – the better!
I hope you will register, raise funds and ride on September 8 for the Community Ride!
Brian Smeenk
President, Merit Award Bursary Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Opportunity Road Ride?
A: This is the second Opportunity Road Ride undertaken by Brian Smeenk, President Merit Award Bursary Program. This year, he will ride 2,500 km around Southern Ontario to raise funds for the Merit Award Bursary Program. On the final day, September 8, riders will join Brian for a community ride and welcome home celebration.
Q: When is the Opportunity Road Ride?
A: Brian will leave August 15 for a 25-day ride, returning on Sunday, September 8, which is the Community Ride finale to welcome Brian home.
Q: Distance: Brian will complete a 2,500 km ride.
A: There are two lengths for the Community Ride: 1) 30 km for a relaxed ride, led by Merit Award Marshalls 2) 80 km ride for experienced riders, led by mindset CYCLING
Q: Are helmets required?
A: YES! Riders are not allowed to ride without a helmet for either length of ride.
Q: Are waivers required?
A: Yes! Every rider will be required to sign a waiver prior to leaving on the Ride.
Q: What is the fundraising requirement and what does it cover?
All riders are asked to raise $250 – more of course! This is a fundraising event! All riders will receive an Opportunity Road Ride t-shirt and Merit water bottle. The donations received will go to support the bursaries and the Alumni Program. We need to help spread the word and raise more funds for the Program as we continue to grow in the number of schools served and awards granted. Riders who raise $750 will receive the Opportunity Road Ride Sugoi cycling jersey! Tax receipts are issued for all donations to the Ride.
Q: Does every team rider need to make their own fundraising page?
This is required for others to find you and support your ride! Each team page must be created by an individual. These individuals do not necessarily need to ride on September 8; however, be sure to let your donors know that you are helping support the Team’s fundraising efforts and helping students in the GTA!
Q: Will food be provided?
A: Yes! The Community Ride on September 8 will conclude with a BBQ celebration for the Merit Community. We will have a water station at a rest stop along the way. This is also the location where the two rides will meet up with Brian Smeenk to welcome him back home!
Presenting Sponsor:
Thanks to our sponsors:
