On July 11, the Muskoka region of Ontario’s cottage country will host the Muskoka Motor Rally, a distinctive charity event combining luxury automobiles, scenic driving, and philanthropy. Since its inception in 2020, the rally has raised over $3 million to support emergency medicine initiatives at the University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto and South Muskoka Memorial Hospital. This year, organizers aim to generate $1 million in donations.
The Muskoka Motor Rally is not a traditional race. Instead, participants embark on a roughly 90-minute drive through Muskoka’s scenic landscape, navigating a course where teams solve clues at checkpoints to earn points. Jacqueline Wachsberg, chair and co-founder of the rally, emphasized the event’s focus on camaraderie and giving back, rather than speed or competition.
Participants begin with a welcome reception before setting out in their own vehicles, often accompanied by friends. Paul Cummings, CEO and dealer principal at Grand Touring Automobiles—this year’s luxury vehicle sponsor—highlighted the event’s diverse array of cars, from modern models such as Rolls-Royce and McLaren to vintage classics like Ferrari, Jaguar E-Types, and Land Rover Defenders. “There’s a real spectrum of cars and you get to meet the owners and talk about their cars,” Cummings noted, describing the rally as “the greatest escape you can ever have” due to its picturesque setting.
The event attracts a broad demographic, including both established and emerging professionals. Ishtar Chandaria, a regular participant since the rally’s first year, cited the celebration of vehicles and the region’s natural beauty as key draws. He also praised the event’s charitable mission, calling it “a car meet with social impact.”
Following the drive, attendees move to a sunset gala and after-party featuring cocktails, conversation, and a silent auction to raise further funds. Emergency medicine leaders from UHN and South Muskoka Memorial Hospital address guests, detailing how the donations support critical healthcare services. This year’s gala will also showcase a live art performance by internationally recognized artist Bradley Theodore, with the resulting piece auctioned later in the evening.
The rally was established by Jacqueline and Daniel Wachsberg, inspired by their family’s long-standing involvement in healthcare philanthropy. Their father’s experience on the UHN Foundation board exposed them early to the importance of medical fundraising and innovation. Initially aiming to raise $200,000 at the first rally, the Wachsbergs were surprised when the event generated over half a million dollars, establishing a strong foundation for subsequent editions.
Held biennially, the upcoming rally will direct proceeds to UHN’s Myrna Daniels Seniors Emergency Medicine Centre at Toronto Western Hospital, slated to open later this year. It will be Canada’s first emergency department specifically designed to serve seniors, addressing a growing need as those aged 65 and older account for more than 25 percent of emergency visits at UHN.
Organizers encourage interested participants and sponsors to visit www.muskokamotorally.com for rally passes or to make donations supporting emergency healthcare in the Muskoka region and Toronto.