by Kevin Milne
MANITOULIN—The sounds of motorcycles filled the air last Saturday morning in Little Current. Earlier in the morning riders from as far away as Brantford, Sudbury and Kitchener registered at the Anchor Inn to participate in the Spirit Island ride for charity.
photos by Kevin Milne
Derek Assiniwe is the chapter president and explained that the Redrum Motorcycle Club was first started in the state of New York as an all indigenous riders group. The club philosophy is to promote understanding and a positive and healthful outlook on life focusing on camaraderie and charitable works and giving. There are chapters in several states along the east coast and as distant as California. The Spirit Island chapter was just recently formed and is the first Redrum chapter in Canada. The club philosophy and concept has been very successful and membership is now open to all who share the club philosophy and positive attitude.
The ride was to focus on raising funds for the Good Food Box Program, supporting Island businesses, experiencing indigenous culture and having a great and safe ride. Even though this was the first annual ride, every aspect from departure from Little Current to completion at the Red Dog Inn in Whitefish Falls was orchestrated and executed flawlessly.
The ride group left Little Current and stopped at 10 Mile Point lookout to chat and see the sites. South Baymouth was our next stop and the group was welcomed for coffee at the Pier Side Restaurant. Providence Bay was the next stop and then on to M’Chigeeng and the annual powwow. After a great visit, which included a blanket dance in honour of the club, we proceeded back through Little Current to Whitefish Falls and the Red Dog Inn. The proprietors rolled out the red carpet for the group, fed us well and provided an opportunity to talk and get to know the other riders.
The final results of the ride are impressive. The good food box received $1,500.75, the Island community businesses received a boost and a good and safe time was had by all 50 bikes and riders. Derek and the Spirit Island Chapter of Redrum created a very worthwhile experience and the second annual Sprit Island Thunder Run will be even bigger. See you same time next year.
