The Base Borden Motorcycle Safety Initiative was held on 16 May 2026 in the 0125 parking lot, bringing together riders, organizers, and members of the local community for a day focused on safety and awareness at the start of the riding season. The event was coordinated by Kapyong Unit, 1 CAV (Canadian Army Veterans).
The initiative featured a safety-focused talk delivered by Sergeant Dan Hunter of the OPP Golden Helmets. His presentation highlighted key considerations for riders as they return to the road, highlighting the importance of safe riding practices. The talk was followed by a live demonstration, giving participants the opportunity to see those practices in action.
A blessing of the bikes was conducted by Padre Bowyer of 3 Canadian Public Affairs Group (3CPRG), who is also a Kapyong member. This part of the event included prayers for a safe riding season and gave everyone a moment to pause and reflect together.
The event also recognized two riders who have passed. 18-year-old Aviator Jessy Blanchard lost their life on 24 April 2022 in an accident on the way back to Base Borden, which was an incident that highlighted the need to bring motorcycle safety initiatives back to the base. More recently, OPP Golden Helmet Sergeant Malcolm passed away on 27 April 2026 following an accident on Highway 401 near Cobourg. Their memory served as an important reminder of the risks riders face, as well as an extremely important reminder of why events like this matter.
Participants took part in a short ride through the local area, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong as well as the 75th anniversary of 2408 RCAC. The ride provided an opportunity for riders to come together in recognition of these milestones.
The day concluded with a slow ride event, where cadets presented tokens of appreciation to riders who participated in both the demonstration and the slow ride, to recognize their involvement.
The initiative saw participation from a range of riders, including a contingent from the Huronia Hog Chapter, as well as spectators from the local community and base personnel, including a Military Police member who attended briefly. Organizers expressed their thanks to all those who came out to support the event and help promote a safe riding season for 2026.
All photos from the event were provided courtesy of Barrie Harley-Davidson.
