History: In 1914, Sadie Grimm became the first Canadian woman to win a motorcycle competition open to men by being the first rider to ride from Winnipeg to Winnipeg Beach that year. This incredible feat was notable considering there was an almost complete absence of roads at the time, which made her achievement all the more remarkable. Not only did she demonstrate exceptional skill and determination, but she also paved the way for future generations of female motorcyclists.

In 2017, in recognition of this groundbreaking achievement and her early promotion of women motorcycle ridership as having national importance, Sadie was inducted into the Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame (CMHOF), marking a significant milestone in her legacy. This honor highlighted not only her personal triumph but also the broader cultural shift towards inclusivity in the sport.

The Manitoba Free Press described her ride as follows: “For twenty-five miles she had to break gravel eight inches deep while going thirty miles an hour; she took several graceful slides but picked herself up unhurt. From Selkirk to St. Louis (now Petersfield) the road was fair but from then on it was all bog and pot holes. After riding paths and mudholes alternatively, Miss Grimm decided to try the railroad track. This she found very bumpy but much preferable to the mudholes interspersed with stumps and roots. BAfter four hours of solid plugging, Miss Grimm registered at the Empress (Hotel) and was told she was the first one to make it through. Miss Grimm, not satisfied with her achievement, turned around after a few hours’ rest and rode back to the city via Teulon completing one of the most strenuous rides ever attempted by a Manitoba motorcyclist.”

She was also recognized in the Manitoba Legislature for these accomplishments, receiving accolades that celebrated her pioneering spirit and the barriers she broke in a predominantly male-dominated arena. The road to the CMHOF involved hundreds of hours of volunteer time, showcasing the dedication of those who worked tirelessly to share her story with a wider audience.

This included the painstaking research, public presentations, and public awareness events, including a special ride organized by the Women’s Riders Committee (WRC) of the Coalition of Manitoba Motorcycle Groups (CMMG) from Winnipeg to Winnipeg Beach annually since June 2017. This annual ride not only commemorates her incredible journey but also serves as a source of inspiration for many to embrace the passion of motorcycle riding, fostering a sense of community among women riders.

Legacy Project: Sadie’s story has drawn significant media attention, including numerous newspaper articles, television pieces, and documentaries that highlight her influence on the motorcycle community and beyond.

The WRC has actively raised funds to build a legacy structure at the site of the former Empress Hotel in Winnipeg Beach, where Sadie completed her historic ride in 1914, ensuring that her legacy is preserved for future generations to admire.

The Province of Manitoba pre-approved a unique all-steel and concrete preliminary design by architect and motorcycle enthusiast Brian Mansky, who aimed to create a structure that reflects both the history of motorcycle riding and the significance of Sadie’s accomplishments.

That plan was subsequently modified and approved, and is being built by design-builder Anvil Tree, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and durability. The picnic shelter is being constructed in Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park, where visitors will be able to gather, reflect, and celebrate the incredible journey of a woman who changed the landscape of motorcycle riding in Canada.