A family's memorial ride is helping local kids discover the joy of riding.
Sometimes, something good can grow out of a terrible loss.
The third annual Memorial Ride for Dom and Dustin is coming up next Saturday, August 29th, in Tillsonburg. Dominik Short-Empey was just 14 when he was killed in a hit-and-run in 2023. The ride also honours Dustin, who died suddenly at 16. The family started the event to help children dealing with the loss of a sibling. But last year, they decided to bring it closer to home, supporting something both boys loved — dirt bikes and all things mechanical.
Christine Empey is Dominik's mother:
This year's donations will support the Next Gen Riders program at Gopher Dunes, where local youth will receive the equipment, instruction and opportunity to learn to ride:
And, while the ride is about remembering two young lives, Christine says what happens when the community comes together is pretty special:
The Memorial Ride is next Saturday, August 29th, with registration at 10 and the ride leaving at 11 from the Tim Hortons and Wendy's on Simcoe Street in Tillsonburg.
It's a day of remembering Dom and Dustin — and giving another generation the chance to discover something they loved.
To find out more, click here.
