CARSTAR Oakville West owner Lorenzo Pellicciotta will embark on 20,000-kilometre motorcycle ride across Canada, aiming to raise $100,000 over approximately six weeks for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind Foundation.
The ride will begin on July 6 in Oakville, Ont. and Pellicciotta will be travelling to four of Canada’s most extreme accessible points: Point Pelee, Ont.; Beaver Creek, Yukon; Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T.; and Cape Spear, N.L.
Pellicciotta said the initiative aims to raise both funds and awareness for Canadians living with vision loss.
“This isn’t just about the ride, it’s about raising awareness and supporting programs that help Canadians with vision loss live independently and confidently,” said Pellicciotta.
The effort is also personal, as Pellicciotta’s youngest daughter lives with vision challenges and has previously accessed CNIB programming.
The journey is expected to take five to six weeks, with daily distances varying depending on weather, road conditions and terrain, particularly in northern regions.
Pellicciotta will seek individual donations, business sponsorships and local involvement along the route, with a CNIB fundraising page expected to launch before the ride. He will complete the journey solo, with family, industry partners and business teams assisting with logistics. CARSTAR Oakville West and AUTOPRO Oakville are helping raise awareness and connect with communities along the way.
Preparation has included route planning, equipment setup and ensuring the motorcycle is ready for long-distance travel in remote areas.
Pellicciotta said key challenges will include distance, weather and remote conditions, noting that flexibility will be essential throughout the journey.
“After more than 40 years in the automotive industry, I understand the importance of preparation -- but also adapting when things don’t go exactly as planned,” he said.
For more on Pellicciottia's journey, or to follow along, click here.
