Local Organization gears up for International Female Ride Day from Oshawa to beautiful Port Perry

by Karrie Lynn Dymond

SCUGOG: On Saturday, May 3rd, the streets of Port Perry will hum with the sound of freedom, as the second annual International Female Ride Day rolls into town. Spearheaded by local nonprofit 'Keep Your Hands 2 Yourself '(KYH2Y) and hosted in partnership with Durham Harley-Davidson, the event brings together motorcycle enthusiasts, survivors, advocates, and community members for a celebration of strength, courage, and resilience.

At the heart of it all is Karrie Lynn Dymond, founder of KYH2Y and a survivor of domestic violence herself. “My mission is to show others, especially those escaping abuse, a beautiful life is possible, “They deserve it, and I’m living proof it’s out there.”

Since 2018, Keep Your Hands 2 Yourself has been working to support individuals fleeing domestic violence and human trafficking. Through advocacy, awareness, and community engagement, the Organization encourages survivors to reclaim their lives and discover new paths forward.

Ms. Dymond’s passion for motorcycles is deeply personal. “My bike has carried me through grief and healing,” she shared. “I’ve cried on it, laughed out loud, and found parts of myself I didn’t know existed. It’s not just a mode of transportation; it’s a journey of transformation.”

Last year’s ride drew approximately 45 bikes. This year, organizers are expecting up to 100 motorcycles and a few classic show cars to join the cause. The event is open to all riders, men and women alike, with female riders proudly leading the procession.

The day begins with a 10 a.m. Departure, from Durham Harley-Davidson, followed by a scenic group ride into Downtown Port Perry, where riders will shop, explore, and connect with local businesses. Then, they will continue on another gorgeous ride, through the Scugog region, eventually returning to the dealership for a celebration with live music and festivities.

In true community spirit, local shops are being invited to take part, by extending their “Diva Night” offers from Friday evening into Saturday morning, for the riders. Participating stores will offer exclusive discounts to those who share the special code word. We will share that word with our riders: It's a secret.

“We’re hoping for strong support from the Port Perry business community. This isn’t just a ride, it’s a statement. It’s about visibility and reminding survivors they are not alone.”

Event Schedule – Saturday, May 3rd, 2025: 10:00 a.m. – Kickstands up at Durham Harley-Davidson

10:45 a.m. – Arrival in Downtown Port Perry Royal LePage

10:45 a.m. – 12:30 PM – Shopping & community engagement

12:45 p.m. – Ride departs Port Perry

1:45 p.m. – Ride through Scugog and return to Durham Harley-Davidson for live music and celebration until 5 p.m.

For more information, to participate, or to support the cause, visit the event page, at facebook.com/share/14Eo4ZC6FrR/

If you're a business owner interested in getting involved, or if you're a rider looking to join, male or female, no matter what kind of bike you have, you're invited to be part of something powerful.

This ride is about owning your story, showing up for each other, and riding toward a better future. “Together, we can make some noise, and make a difference.”

See you all then.

We are looking for a couple of volunteers in Port Perry to help guide the bikes in the parking lot and make sure people walking around are safe, and then, to help us get out of town safely down Queen Street and Water Street, to Highway 7A East. We will be chatting with DRPS as well. This is a awesome parade, for the kids to see, when we are leaving town, as well.