12/18/2009
By Pat McNally - RSA
2009 Change the Tide Convention Ride - An inspiring article that shows us how a tight community and a shared passion can fuel the WICC flame even brighter - by Pat McNally - RSA
Isn’t it funny, the things that develop from friendly conversations at conventions? What grew from a discussion about a mutual interest in riding motorcycles and wouldn’t it be fun to have a ride at the next convention, took life over the next year and turned into the organization of the 1st Convention Ride at last years’ Atlantic Alliance. Nine hardy souls made the trek to Cape Breton together in the fall and raised $2500 for WICC.
From those humble beginnings grew an overwhelming interest from many more riders in our insurance communities in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. This year, 19 riders, along with 6 passengers, once again braved the elements and rode to Halifax, Nova Scotia to take part in the Change the Tide Convention Ride.
The rumble and roar of this motley crew of otherwise upstanding members of their communities, was heard throughout the downtown core of Halifax. We gathered early in the morning and set off together to ride the scenic South Shore of Nova Scotia to Lunenburg.
Nineteen bikes could be seen stretched out over a half kilometre of the highway as we made our way along the coastline. Brokers, company people, adjusters and suppliers rode long and proud that day. Despite a torrential downpour later in the day, no one’s spirits were dampened and everyone arrived back safe and sound with smiles from ear to ear.
Not only was this a great opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie of the day, but the riders once again collected pledges on behalf of WICC. One creative rider, Greg Dunlap of Wilson Insurance in Fredericton, New Brunswick challenged his co- workers to raise a certain target amount of money and if they did, he would wear a dress to work. Well, they did and he did! At the President’s dinner, the riders were proud to present Nancy Thorne, Atlantic WICC representative and owner of Carnaghan Taylor Fowler Insurance of Saint John, New Brunswick, with pledges worth $9,434. The convention committee then quickly pledged additional funds. This opened the floodgates and soon different tables at the dinner were openly challenging each other. By the end of the evening the total amount pledged to WICC exceeded $22,000!
The generosity of the Atlantic Insurance community was alive and well that night to be sure. A great time was had by all riders and the challenge is there for next year’s Atlantic Alliance in St. John’s Newfoundland. Newfoundland in the fall.... sun, rain, snow, sleet....who knows what will face us. Any takers for 2010?
Click here for all the photos. http://picasaweb.google.com/nbhab24/ConventionRide?authkey=Gv1sRgCNvh1dugx9bL-QE&feat=email#
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