A group of cyclists will pedal 800 kilometres from Collingwood to Montreal in memory of Olivia Rourke, a young woman who passed tragically in a car accident.
Rourke was one of four teenage girls and their school teacher who were killed in a car accident near London on May 23, 2025. They were part of the team from Walkerton District Community School heading home after competing in a high school softball tournament in Dorchester.
Olivia’s uncle, Mike Leblanc, said the ride will begin in Collingwood on September 23.
“We’re doing it in order to honour my niece who passed on May 23rd in that car crash,” Leblanc explained. “She has a foundation set up with the Toronto Foundation, which basically is there to support youth initiatives and women in sport as well as cancer research.”
The ride, named “Ride for Liv,” will span four days, beginning in Collingwood and winding through Huntsville, Algonquin Park, Eganville, Chelsea, and finally downtown Montreal.
"Each section is about 200 kilometres," Leblanc explained. "The final leg coincides with the UCI World Men’s Elite Race, giving participants a chance to witness one of cycling’s premier events."
Leblanc emphasized that the ride is designed to be accessible for cyclists of all levels. He promised an easy pace and added that riders can also choose to do one section and fundraise for that one section.
Between 20 and 30 riders are expected to participate, supported by vehicles carrying luggage and providing assistance along the route.
The ride also serves as a fundraising initiative for the Olivia Rourke Foundation, which supports youth programs, women in sports, and cancer research. Supporters can contribute online, either to a specific rider or directly to the Foundation. Leblanc encouraged community participation.
“They can donate to a specific rider or they can donate to the Foundation in general,” he said.
“Olivia was always involved in sports, trying to get people to get outside, people to do sports,” Leblanc said. “It’s going to be right up her alley, which is great.”
Through Ride for Liv, the Rourke family hopes to celebrate Olivia’s life, continue her legacy, and inspire others to make a difference.
