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In 2001, the GVMC Executive felt that the Club needed an extra Run to complete the Riding Season, so it was decided to set up a Run for the weekend before Thanksgiving. Because of the proximity to Thanksgiving, they thought it would be nice to have a turkey dinner in the clubhouse, at the end of the Run. Thus, it was called the "Turkey Run" with the first one being organized by Len Stenersen for the Fall of 2001. It was hugely successful with everyone enjoying the idea of a full course dinner at the end of the Run and became a regular event with Len continuing to organize the Turkey Run for 2002, 2003, and 2004. During this period, the Club mourned the passing of several long term early club members culminating with the death of Barry "Bear" Illingworth. At this time, the Executive decided that we should have a Run dedicated to the Club Pioneers. Therefore, the Turkey Run became the Pioneer Run. Pat Peters, long time friend of Barry, donated a totem pole statue that belonged to Barry to become the topper for a Pioneer Run trophy. Len Stenersen set up this first Pioneer Run, trying to use as many pioneer roads in the Lower Mainland as possible, with a few questions for riders to answer along the way, and of course the popular full course dinner at the end.
For 2005, Bob Vickers took over the organization of the Pioneer Run turning it into an Observation Run by adding more questions along the route, while still trying to keep some historical aspect. The Pioneer Run continues in this format, the routes changing from year to year, but always trying to use lots of scenic, twisty backroads. The emphasis is on having a fun ride, more than a contest, but there are trophies given out to the riders and passengers with the most correct answers, and the full course dinner continues to be a highlight of the event.
In 2019 Don Bowman took over the Pioneer Run following in Bob's footsteps and following his format.
Current Information on the Pioneer Run
21st Annual GVMC Pioneer Run
Current Covid Protocols will be observed
Please plan to join us and mark Sunday, September 15, 2024 on your calendar for the 21st Annual GVMC Pioneer Run for a great motorcycle ride (maybe the last of the motorcycling season).
Starting from the GVMC clubhouse at #306 - 9785 192 Street, Surrey.
Sign up from 9am - 10am. First rider out at 10am.
This is an observation road run (with questions to be answered along the way), on some of the best "twisties" in the Fraser Valley. Answering the questions is optional, for those who just want a fun Sunday ride.
Includes a Full Dinner Corn Roast at the Clubhouse at the end of the run, with presentation of trophies for winning riders and teams (rider and passenger).
Cost - only $25
Pre-register by September 8th to confirm dinner.
The Pioneer Run is dedicated to the memory of all those loyal and hardworking club members who have passed on, but who had a tremendous part in forming the GVMC into what it is today.
Check under Past Events and in the Photo Gallery for information and photos from previous Pioneer Runs to see the fun had at this event in the past.
Event Comments: 2024 21st Annual GVMC Pioneer Run Epilogue
A great day of riding for the last historical riding event of the year.
The morning of the ride had clear blue skies and a few small clouds. By the time the ride was ready to go the sun was warming everything up. There was a good turnout for the ride of with 12 signups plus 2 others for dinner only. Most everyone enjoyed the ride and route. As usual some riders just enjoyed doing ride. While other riders answered the questions and enjoyed the ride. This year’s winners were: Solo 1ST place – Phil Blackburn
