A councillor for the RM of Ste. Anne is organizing a cycling fundraiser for the Dawson Trail Museum.
Kyle Waczko says his inspiration to start "The Dawson Trek" came after historical markers were installed along the trail, sparking his desire to bike the length of it.
He wanted to invite the community to join him on that journey, and motivate people to connect with history.
"People are going to be cycling the same trail that's been used for hundreds of years. It's just interesting to think that they were coming here with ox and cart," he says. "This was the gateway to the prairies... it's pretty historic."
The councillor says the 96km ride will start at Tallgrass Prairie in Winnipeg, and wind down the trail to an ATV drop off past Richer for an end of ride celebration.
He has completed the ride once through, and says there is lots to enjoy about it.
"It was the perfect balance of trail, gravel, and pavement. There were smells from the city, to the country, to the evergreens. The senses were excited the whole time, and it went by very nicely...it didn't feel like it took that long," he says.
Yvonne Fontaine Godard, president of the Dawson Trail Museum, says the funds raised through the event will be used to maintain 15 historical markers along the trail.
"The markers share our history from 150 years ago, and it's time we bring that trail back to life. By raising money to look after the markers, that will make sure it is kept up and that's very important," she says.
By just biking past the markers, she says there will be plenty to learn.
"It's all about the experience, and thinking about the experience our ancestors had coming though on wagon and horses. Now you're going by on a bicycle—it's like the wheel has turned. It's a full circle," she says.
The event is on July 19, and the deadline to register is May 5.
"I'll consider success around 12 people, but I'm hoping for a whole lot more," Waczko says.
He notes the entry fee is $200, which includes a jersey, nutrition, lunch, end-of-ride celebration and $100 charitable donation tax receipt.
The ride will also be supported with volunteers to ensure safety along the way, he says, adding he is still looking for volunteers.
For those looking to join as a participate, volunteer, donate to, or sponsor the event, contact Waczko at 204-510-4968 or kwaczko@gmail.com.
"Volunteers really do make the world go around," he says.
Fontaine Godard adds, "Coming together makes it a lot easier. Everybody pitches in, everybody does what they can do. Some people give their time, some will give their money, and some will give of their work ethic."
She says, annually, the museum aims to raise about $30,000 to keep the lights on and complete various projects.
It has been renovating it's building, an old church, since 2009, and she says they are now 90 per cent done.
"It's slow moving, but we're getting there by now," Fontaine Godard says.
To help meet the museum's funding needs, she says there are other events coming up to support the museum—most imminent being the Spring Tea fundraiser.
"Book your tickets because there's limited seating," she says.
"We will have entertainment, a fashion show with spring and summer clothing, and serve all types of foods on a charcuterie board—of course, with vintage dishes all set up," she adds. "We will serve beverages, and have door prizes, as well as a photo booth with vintage hats."
The gift shop will also be open that day.
Find more details on the Dawson Trail Museum events page at museedawsontrail.com.