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Bikers pay tribute to deceased motorcyclist in St. John's

Well-known motorcyclist Chad Pitcher was killed by a speeding driver on May 11

Jack O’Rourke of St. John’s soaks in the rays Saturday at the harbourfront as he waits to take part in the Chad Pitcher Memorial Drive.
Jack O’Rourke of St. John’s soaks in the rays Saturday at the harbourfront as he waits to take part in the Chad Pitcher Memorial Drive. - Peter Jackson

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ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — It was a beautiful day for a sad tribute.

Hundreds of motorcyclists from around the St. John’s area and beyond lined the entire waterfront Saturday to take part in the Chad Pitcher Memorial Ride.

“We’re here to support the family,” Barry Clarke said while waiting for the ride to begin. He and his brother Scotty were among those gathered at the harbour under sunny skies with temperatures in the 20s.

“It could have been one of us,” Scotty said.

“Very easily,” Barry added. “The cars got to start watching out for bikes.”


Barry Clarke, Scotty Clarke and Paul Ford shoulder up for a quick snap at the St. John’s waterfront Saturday. They were among a stream of motorcyclists paying tribute to fellow biker Chad Pitcher, who was killed earlier this month by a speeding driver. - Peter Jackson/The Telegram
Barry Clarke, Scotty Clarke and Paul Ford shoulder up for a quick snap at the St. John’s waterfront Saturday. They were among a stream of motorcyclists paying tribute to fellow biker Chad Pitcher, who was killed earlier this month by a speeding driver. - Peter Jackson/The Telegram


Pitcher, 44, was known by many in the motorcycle community and had several riding friends.

He lost his life on the night of May 11, when a man speeding in a Kia Soul in the west end of the metro region rammed into several vehicles stopped at a red light at the intersection of Topsail Road and Hamlyn Road. Pitcher, who had been out for a ride on his motorcycle that evening, was said to have died at the scene, as did the driver of the Kia.

Saturday’s ride began downtown, went along Waterford Bridge Road and then back down Topsail Road, directly past the intersection where Pitcher died.


Motorcyclists taking part in the Chad Pitcher Memorial Drive stream past the spot on Topsail Road where Pitcher lost his life on May 11. Looking on at left is Dorcas Elms.
Motorcyclists taking part in the Chad Pitcher Memorial Drive stream past the spot on Topsail Road where Pitcher lost his life on May 11. Looking on at left is Dorcas Elms.


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