NORRIS ARM - On July 10 friends and family members of Konrad Feltham, who passed away in a tragic accident last July, shared in a day of fun as they rode in memory of a son, brother and friend.
The Feltham family spent a great deal of time organizing the event, best known as, The Ride for Konrad. It was evident last Saturday, that the work they have put into the fundraiser, surely paid off.
Participants met in Bishop’s Falls at 12 p.m. on dirt bikes, trikes and all terrain vehicles (ATV’s). From there, riders travelled along one of Konrad’s favourite trails to Grand Falls-Windsor then back to Jigg’s Pit for a barbeque with other supporters.
Riders showed off their talent at Jigg’s Pit as they glided over mounds of sand. It was a bittersweet ride down memory lane for relatives and friends because although Konrad is no longer with them, his legacy still lives on through the passion of the riders.
Some participants wore t-shirts that had the Ride for Konrad logo on the back and others placed stickers on their bikes with Konrad’s racing number on it.
Promoting safety is one thing the Feltham family aim to encourage -whether it be driving a vehicle on the highway or riding a dirt bike on the trails. Organizers continually emphasized the need for riders to wear their helmets at the event.
“We want to keep everyone safe,” said Kellie Feltham, Konrad’s mother.
Not only was this event created to raise money for the Konrad Memorial Scholarship fund and the Janeway foundation, but it was also a way to keep Konrad’s memory alive. They released 17 red balloons into the sky in honour of each year of Konrad’s life - a very touching moment for everyone in attendance.
Another Ride for Konrad was also held on July 10 in Churchill Falls, Labrador. One of Konrad’s aunts Jodean Hancock, organized a successful fundraiser with over 20 participants that raised approximately $1,000.
The grand total so far is $7,283.17 and donations are still rolling in.
Steven Kirby, a close friend of Konrad’s, was one of the participants in the ride beginning in Bishop’s Falls.
“It brings back all the memories we had of times we would ride around these areas,” said Steven. “This event shows the support of many people and shows the family how many good friends Konrad had.”
Many pleasant new memories were created for the participants, volunteers and organizers at the ride while old memories remain close and dear to everyone’s heart.
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