The roar of engines and the spirit of giving returned to west-central Saskatchewan as the 2025 K-Town Memorial Toy Run hit the highway June 28, bringing together bikers and supporters for a heartfelt cause.
Now in its fourth year under the leadership of Kelly and Joan Phinney, the annual event collects toys for children in need and raises funds for the West Central Crisis Centre. This year’s route stretched 225 kilometres, with stops in Kerrobert, Luseland, Colville, and back to Kindersley. Riders wrapped up the day with a banquet and prize giveaways at the Kindersley Inn.
The number of participants was lower than in past years, with 25 bikes registered. Kelly Phinney attributed the dip to the long weekend and uncertain weather forecasts. Still, the event made a big impact.
“We did raise a large amount of toys and we have $3,600 towards the crisis center,” Phinney said. “Even though the numbers were down, the outcome was still good and really appreciated from the community.”
A highlight of the day was the wiener roast held at the first stop in Kerrobert, an addition introduced last year that’s quickly become a crowd favourite.
“I find with the roast everybody mingles, nobody sits in their own little group,” Phinney said. “Every year we do the toy run I meet really good people.”
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Planning for next year’s event is already in the works, with organizers aiming for early July. The exact date and route will be finalized closer to the time, depending on weather and road conditions.
Phinney encouraged anyone with a motorcycle or classic car to join in the tradition next year.
“I highly recommend to anybody who does ride a motorcycle or has a classic car, come on out and check out the toy run, because great friends are made,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to the many supporters who help make the event a success.
“I’d really like to thank everybody who sponsored the toy run this year and every other year in the past. We couldn’t do this without them.”