A group of local motorcyclists went above and beyond to make a Penticton boy’s fifth birthday one he’ll never forget.
Carter Verge wasn’t expecting much on his fifth birthday due to the pandemic.
However, the day (Aug. 24) ended up being more than he could have ever imagined thanks to some quick thinking from his father, Peter.
Leading up to Carter’s birthday Peter knew he wasn’t able to have many friends over or have much of a party, so he began brainstorming ways of making his son’s special day a little brighter.
Peter sent out a request over social media hoping that “maybe 10 or 15” motorcycles would show up for his son’s birthday.
When over 50 bikers took over the block Peter and his son were both astonished. To Carter, the event was literally magical.
“We actually gave him (Carter) some sunglasses and told him that they were magic and if he wishes for something it would happen,” said Peter. “He said he wished for motorcycles that night… he was in shock when they turned the corner!”
Even Peter isn’t sure how the word got out to so many motorcyclists.
“I honestly don’t know who any of the bikers were that showed up to my house,” said the father of three. “I don’t know who organized it but all I can say is thank you for doing that you made my son’s birthday.”
Peter says he hopes events like this inspire more positivity and acts of caring in the community, despite the challenging times and negativity that seem to be pervasive these days.
“I don’t think I’ll ever get over the kindness that people showed for a family they don’t know, just to wish my son a happy birthday. I’ve had literally hundreds of people message and comment (to) me saying this made their day and restored some faith in 2020.
“To everyone who came out, shared or helped, thank you. (This year) has been hard on everyone and you made our little guys day magic.”
While Carter might be in love with motorcycles now, it could be a while until he has his own.
Peter says he will consider paying for his sons motorcycle lessons, a helmet and protective gear if the aspiring biker can one day save up enough money to buy his own bike.
At five years old, he’ll certainly have plenty of time to save.
Check out the footage from Carter’s big day below:
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jesse.day@pentictonwesternnews.com
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