OPP Golden Helmets in Perth

OPP Golden Helmets in Perth 2013 from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.
This was a great morning's entertainment. Their precision and speed makes me glad these men and women are out there protecting us!



Golden Helmets in Perth Intro from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.
First the town crier announced the event!

OPP Golden Helmets in Perth, Ontario

The Ontario Provincial Police Golden Helmets Motorcycle Precision Team was formed in 1963. Each year they tour the Province of Ontario giving exhibitions of superb riding skills at fairs, festivals and parades. The 20-member team, comprised of OPP officers on regular patrol duties, consists of the Ride Master, Commentator, the motorcycle technician and 17 riders.

The speed is incredible. I caught myself several time. It is dangerous.
Sargeant Lise Grenier is an amazing woman. The first female motorcycle police officer, she lets us know that anyone can do anything, and its cool to be the first.
Here is a portion of an interview (click here for the full text):

" Last year I was promoted into a new position, Provincial Motorcycle Coordinator. I’m responsible for ensuring all the motorcycles have been properly equipped so the officers can do their jobs. I’m the Ride Master for the twenty people on the Golden Helmets. I’ll tell you they’re the best bunch of guys to work with. The fact that I’m a woman just doesn’t faze them whatsoever. I’m also in charge of the VIP escorts for any dignitaries coming into town: the Prime Minister and any Presidents. I’ve escorted the Pope, the Queen, Lady Diana and Prince Charles in 1991. I actually cared for the two boys, Prince William and Prince Harry, for ten days, doing things like taking them to McDonald’s or swimming."

'Peaches' is her nickname! (It's on the back of her helmet!)

Ride Master, Sergeant Lise Grenier
She was fabulous showing Rick Mercer how to do the ride.

 The motorcycles used by the Golden Helmets are Harley Davidson Police Specials. They have 1690 c.c. engines and weigh 262 kg (800 pounds). These motorcycles are the same ones used on normal patrol. During each 30-minute performance the riders take their machines through a series of complex patterns, which are intended to demonstrate the maneuverability of the machines and the riders' skills.
I was amazed. The videos I took show the sound, noise, speed and control. For its all about keeping control of this big beast.

Lots to keep organized.

Our town crier!

Kids, balloons, RBC!

Something about dude in uniform!

Hooray Lanark County OPP

The town crier crying!

The Mayor greets the sup't

Crowds!

Keep your kids off of the street!

Did you know OPP motorcycle riders have to requalify?

We live near the OPP requalification firing range. I've written about this before. The woman in charge, Sgt. Lisa Hazelton, is out of Smith's Falls detachment. She agreed to let me have a tour of the range, as I felt it might alleviate my fears. The imagination is a scary place.
No photos, of course, but I have collected my fair share of local and provincial police. Obviously, they are doing their jobs, as crimes are down!
But last month, on a wet April day, I spotted these nicely lined up motorcycles. I popped into the pizza chain and told them how nicely they had them all lined up. Apparently, they have to requalify or recertify their driving skills, as well as their firing skills!