The Tribune

RECENTLY, 170 cyclists took part in the 1st Annual Give A Child a Ride (GACAR) cycling event.

RBC partnered with The British Colonial Hilton Nassau as a corporate sponsor of the inaugural charity event and fielded a team of five riders. The goal of GACAR is to raise funds towards the advancement and education of children residing at local orphanages.

Participants had the option of riding two routes, 35 miles and 10 miles respectively, starting and ending at Pompey Square, Bay Street.

The 2013 Give A Child A Ride event exceeded its fundraising goals, raising approximately $50,000. Funds raised will pay for the tuition of children from the Ranfurly Home for Children and the Elizabeth Estates Children’s Home, to attend St Anne’s School.

“When we decided to host Give A Child A Ride and reached out to Royal Bank to partner with us, we were thrilled upon receiving their positive response”, said Latoya S Moxey, marketing and leisure sales manager at the British Colonial Hilton.

“RBC and The British Colonial Hilton share a commitment to giving back to the community. We are grateful to RBC for their support and look forward to partnering with them again as we work towards the growth and development of young people throughout The Bahamas,” she said.

Children’s homes in The Bahamas provide the immeasurable service of helping care for children who are abandoned or removed from their families for various reasons. These children leave the homes at the mandatory age of 18 and must become independent. Equipping these children with a good quality education will give them the best possible chance to realise their potential, become self-sufficient and make positive contributions to society.

Jan Knowles, RBC manager, public relations and communication, said: “RBC remains committed to supporting the educational development of young persons throughout The Bahamas. We believe that every child deserves the best start in life no matter their circumstances. RBC congratulates The British Colonial Hilton on the success of GACAR and is proud to have been a part of this wonderful event.”

Ms Knowles also commended the five members of the RBC cycling team for their participation in GACAR. “Team RBC, our staff volunteers and their families help make an impact in our communities through their energy, passion, time and expertise,” she said.

RBC teams participate in a number of charity races, including Marathon Bahamas, Ride for Hope, One Bahamas Unity Walk and Stride for Life.