The 25th anniversary of Rick Hansen’s Man in Motion relay will journey through Langley on Saturday, May 19, with a stop at 3 p.m. at the Langley Events Centre. The relay will make then make its way through Willoughby and on to Langley City, before heading to Surrey.
Since the original tour started, Hansen has raised more than $250 million through the Rick Hansen Foundation to help find a cure for spinal cord injury and to develop healthy, accessible, and inclusive communities for everyone.
To commemorate the silver anniversary of the tour, the Rick Hansen Foundation is holding a relay that will see the dream and actions of the Man In Motion taken on by Many In Motion.
The relay started on Canada’s East Coast in August and more than 600 communities will be a part of the journey by the time it reaches its final destination of Vancouver in May.
During the relay, the one Man In Motion will be represented by 7,000 participants, known as Difference Makers, who will take turns walking, wheeling, or running across the country.
Along the way, these people — who have made a difference in the lives of others themselves — will pass on the official Rick Hansen medal.
A free Active Expo will be held at the Langley Events Centre to celebrate the relay’s arrival.
From 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on May 19, the family-oriented event will highlight community organizations and showcase how they positively promote inclusivity within the community.
Booths will be set up and visitors will be able to take part in a wheelchair obstacle course, try wheelchair curling, and participate in adapted Zumba, and recreation, culture, and parks programs.
Para Skier Rob Gosse will share his experiences in sit skiing, and the Langley Pos-Abilities Society will provide a chance to “try on” a disability.
As well, face painters will entertain children and refreshments will be available, with proceeds going to support the Rick Hansen Foundation.
“The goal of the event is to give people of all ages a chance to have fun while they wait for the relay to arrive, to learn about what life is like for those with disabilities, and more importantly, give them a chance to learn about the many accessible activities and services that exist in our community,” said Township community recreation programmer Stephanie Eby.
“Being able to experience their challenges and their accomplishments encourages understanding and will enhance the importance of what is being celebrated on this day.”