Val Duquenne and Thomas Clark, two riders aiming to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health, reported that their bikes were taken while they were briefed about the event’s route and safety measures. The incident occurred in a central area of the city, according to organizers, who described the theft as a setback for the mission-driven journey.
Both cyclists were part of a longer, national effort designed to bring attention to mental health challenges faced by men and to encourage discussions and resources. The ride has been documented as a charitable endeavour, with goals tied to outreach, community engagement, and fundraising.
Winnipeg police confirmed they were assisting with the investigation into the theft. At this stage, there are no updates on suspects or the recovery of the equipment. Organizers emphasized that the primary objective remains the awareness initiative, though they acknowledged the impact of the loss on the riders’ ability to continue the journey immediately.
The thieves’ actions prompted a pause in the day’s activities as the team assessed options for replacing gear and continuing the ride. Volunteers and supporters have rallied around the pair, offering assistance and encouragement to keep the charitable mission on track.
Duquenne and Clark, both experienced cyclists, began their nationwide trek in the weeks leading up to the Winnipeg incident. The route is designed to traverse multiple provinces to maximize visibility for men’s mental health resources and to foster conversations across communities.
Police continue to investigate and are seeking any information from the public that could assist in recovering the stolen bicycles or identifying those responsible. No injuries were reported, and the riders were not harmed during the incident.
Local organizers say they remain committed to completing the cross-country journey and using the episode as a reminder of the importance of mental health support. They plan to resume activity as soon as possible while reviewing security measures to prevent further losses.