If it was up to Paul Nichols he would already be on the road. However, the planning and preparation required to organize the Communities for Veterans, The Ride Across Canada (TRAC) have taken several months and there’s still some work to be done. A fundraiser is planned for March 21 at the Seniors’ Centre with a dessert auction, dinner and dance. Tickets are $25/each and available at the Observer front office and Circle ‘S’ Western Wear. There’s also a guest speaker. A woman named Lejla will speak of her experiences as a Bosnian War survivor and the role Canadian troops played. Also in attendance will be Afghan vets, a Silver Cross father and hopefully the performance of songs written for this Ride Across Canada.
The public is also asked to purchase a special commemorative button for $20. Every button purchased helps support TRAC. Buttons are available at the Observer, Integris Credit Union, Circle ‘S’, Green Tree, Icon Homes on Two-Mile Flat (in their new location), Good Health Pharmacy, West Central Pipe and MLA Coralee Oakes office on Front Street.
TRAC grew from Paul’s own experience as a returning veteran (he served in Croatia in 1993.) He’s well aware of the troubles and loneliness which accompany veterans returning to civilian life.
Setting up the network of locations, regional coordinators, routes and volunteers as well as fundraising for the costs of such an ambitious undertaking has required a herculean effort by a lot of people.
There are 60 regional coordinators looking after the entire route. Paul’s proud to say they’re from every walk of life and every corner of the country.
Right here in Quesnel, people have stepped up to provide assistance in whatever form they can. City Hall has helped with communication with the communities TRAC will be stopping in with all the necessary permits and variances required. Quesnel Rotary is helping liaise with Rotary clubs in communities across the country and Paul added the project has amazing support from branch Legions across Canada. These are just a few of the many people and organizations stepping up to assist TRAC.
He sited the Manitoulin Island Legion branch which is working with three other branches to stage a small jackpot rodeo, a music festival and an amazing welcome for TRAC.
“We have, right now, 160 registered veteran riders with another 100 being processed and more than 60 communities across Canada are on board with approximately 1,200 volunteers across these communities,” he said.
“My goal is to put 700 veterans in saddles. Without a word spoken
we’ll spawn conversations and the
face of Canadian vets will change forever.”
Although there’s still details to work out (still looking for trucks for hauling horses and a travel trailer for administrative requirements), Paul believes Canadians will help them.
“They need to know we’re serious and that means getting on the road,” he added.
CFV-TRAC’s goal is to change the perception of the Canadian vet.
The fact is Canada has three generations of military veterans since the Second World War and the average age of veterans is constantly going down. Right now it’s less than 35 years of age.
While on the road, the crew will be collecting stories from not only the Canadian vets but also the communities that have benefited from their vets.
Paul has complete confidence in his crew.
“We trust everyone and respect their unique skills.”
March 29 marks the day of the KickOff parade. Everyone is invited to join Paul and Terry at the Legion for a pancake breakfast ($8/each) and following will be the parade starting and finishing at the Legion.
A full colour brigade including Canadian Rangers, members of the Legion Pipe Band, Veterans and members of the RCMP will march proudly with Paul to show their support of this extraordinary event.
From here TRAC ventures on to Williams Lake for a barbecue lunch, 100 Mile House for dinner and lunch in Clinton the following day.
April 13 in Victoria will be the official start for TRAC.
“I know once we get moving it will all work out. I have such faith, I’ve bet the farm on it.”
