On Saturday, September 15th, 2018, the third annual GTA Truck Convoy for Special Olympics Ontario grew in numbers once again this year with tremendous results. An impressive 50 trucks rode together to participate – 15 more than last year – raising $27,716.85.
In addition to the carriers who participated in the convoy, fire, EMS and law enforcement also came out to join in the festivities and ensure the events of the day went safely. Local athletes stepped up to help drivers navigate the route. Another partner in the event’s success was the 407/ETR, enabling the convoy to move along smoothly. It was truly a united community effort.
In addition to sponsoring the Convoy, Musket was proud to send out three of its own trucks, driven by volunteer drivers Robert Perry, Kenden Hirota, and Ray Walsh.
“This year I had the pleasure, once again, to represent Musket Transport at the 2018 Special Olympics GTA Truck Convoy in Brampton. I am thrilled to be able to play a role in supporting such a meaningful cause. This year had an amazing turn out from both law enforcement personnel and transport carriers alike. Through our combined efforts, a great amount of money was raised to help the Special Olympics athletes along their journey,” said Robert Perry, who also participated in last year’s convoy.
After graduating from CHET’s AZ/DZ program in 2016, Robert joined Musket. In one short year, he moved beyond his role as a driver and became a Montreal Linehaul Trainer. Robert has also joined the marketing team as a drone operator, frequently assisting with photography; became one of CHET’s expert instructors; and has updated his license to include a C.
“I look forward to continuing to represent Musket moving forward with future events like this. I’m already planning for the 2019 Convoy!” Robert added.
After registering at the Powerade Centre North Parking Lot, participants enjoyed vendor displays, raffles, a dunk tank and a truck pull with Special Olympics athletes. After an opening ceremony, the convoy departed at 11:00 AM. Returning an hour and a half later, participants were treated to a BBQ lunch followed by a touching closing ceremony.
The one-day event was possible thanks to support from the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the grassroots fundraising organization for Special Olympics globally. A celebration of the trucking industry and its support for the Special Olympics, the Truck Convoy started as a local event in Florida in 2001. It has evolved into an international movement with convoys in over 40 States and 5 provinces annually.
In 2005, the Ontario Truck Convoy began in Paris and has been going strong ever since. In 2016, a second convoy was formed in the GTA. Funds raised by the Ontario Truck Convoy are donated to Special Olympics Ontario sporting programs and development, which allows athletes to sign up for sports without having to worry about travel or equipment costs.
Musket Transport is proud and privileged to be able to participate in the GTA Truck Convoy benefiting Special Olympics Ontario, in addition to various other community causes and events. We look forward to next year’s convoy and have no doubt it will be a success!
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Musket Volunteer Drivers Join Growing GTA Convoy to Benefit the Special Olympics