On Saturday, September 14th, 2013, the Annual Cycling for Seafarers fundraising event to aid the ministry of the Mission to Seafarer’s took place. For 2013, 92 riders participated; fifty-two cycled the 40 kilometre route and forty took on the ambitious challenge of the 100 kilometre route. Jane Dittrich of Christ Church Cathedral who also did double and triple duty as photographer and reporter for diocesan communication was one of three “church connected” riders who finished the 100K route. St. Mary’s, Kerrisdale’s Verger, John Taylor and Mission to Seafarers Chaplain, the Reverend Nick Parker were the other two.
The 100K route riders began their journey in a heavy mist until the completion of the Richmond portion of the ride (Iona Beach). The weather for the rest of the journey was perfect for a long bike ride, not too hot and the rain held off.
As of this writing in mid- September total pledges raised by all cyclists and general donations toward Cycling for Seafarers 2013 are currently at $46,500 of the $50,000 goal. Jane was delighted to announce that she personally raised, $2,045.00 for the 2013 version of the ride.
After the riders were finished there was a celebratory BBQ at the Mission to Seafarer’s Flying Angel Club located In Vancouver’s industrial waterfront district.
Thanks go out to the volunteers who’s efforts made the events of the day smooth and successful; helping at the rest/snack/hydration stations (Rev. Parker’s son, Ben handled the Iona Beach stop) and at the BBQ. The yacht, transporting the riders, captain’s and skippers and the barge that ferried the bikes back to the Mission to Seafarers, navigators and assistants also donated their time and services.
Many thanks to all involved for their commitment to this ministry of pastoral hospitality to those from far away.
Images: Top: John Taylor (verger, St. Mary's Kerrisdale), Jane Dittrich (rider, Christ Church Cathedral) and Monica Hilborn (Environment Canada) starting the 100K ride from the Mission at 6:40am. Middle right and homepage: Nick Parker (MTS Senior Port Chaplain & ride organizer), Jane Dittrich (Christ Church Cathedral), John Taylor (Verger, St. Mary's Kerrisdale). Below: Susan Ohannesian (rider, organist at St. Mary's Kerrisdale), John Taylor (rider, verger at St. Mary's Kerrisdale), Jane Dittrich (rider, Christ Church Cathedral), Gwen Ingham (rider, St. Mary's Kerrisdale), Paul Borthistle (rider, Parish Priest at parish of St. George, Fort Langley) along with three riders from his congregation at St. George. Aboard the yacht back to the Mission, after the ride, from the ride end point of Belcarra Park.