Sold Out Events Hosts 400 Cyclists, Raises $40,000 for Environmental Projects
By Kelly Burgess,
Bruce Peninsula Press
There was something magical about the mist as it dissipated well enough for the eager 400 riders to be able to see clearly at the 2021 Gravel Gran Fondo on Sunday, October 3. This was the second annual “Lighthouse to Lighthouse” Gravel Gran Fondo organized by Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Board Member Mike Campbell and his wife Jean to raise money for the Association.
There were participants from various places in Ontario who enjoyed the spectacular views along Georgian Bay starting and ending at Lion’s Head Beach. Riders had the option of a 35 km, 55 km, 80km and 115 km journey. Although all routes boasted scenic delights, the longer two routes got a chance to view the historic Cabot Head Lighthouse.
Raising Money for the BPBA Projects
The Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association (BPBA) is so grateful for the support from many local sponsors, over 100 volunteers and the 400 participants who raised $40,000 to help finance the BPBA’s ongoing environmental projects. Some of the projects include the Six Streams Restoration, Climate Action, Cabot Head Road to Trail Conversion, Red-headed Woodpecker, Phragmites Removal and Bioremediation. The BPBA is also involved with EcoAdventures, Bayside Astronomy and Dark Skies Awareness. For more information, to make a donation, or to become a volunteer visit bpba.ca and myecoadventures.ca.
Although the money raised is a fantastic perk, the joy and sense of achievement that the riders and volunteers experience is the measure of true success. Leanne Haynes, an avid runner from Meaford did a fantastic job encouraging and directing riders and traffic as part of her duties. “I volunteered because I know a couple of people doing the ride and because I am an avid racer and appreciate all of the volunteers at events so I wanted to give back”, expressed Leanne.
Capturing the Beauty of the Bruce
Riders not only enjoyed the positivity and support from the volunteers but also were treated to home-made butter tarts along the course. After enjoying their satiating butter-tarts Amy Robitaille from Rockwood and Matt Underwood from Wingham took a little break at 40 Hills Road to wait for some friends to catch up on their 115 km journey. “We have been told that this ride is beautiful and also that it is not too hilly”, Amy explained. Both riders were still full of enthusiasm and smiles as they made their way back to the final kilometers and the festival tent where lunch and beer was available to the riders.
It is obvious to see why this event is so attractive to riders with its tremendous support from the organizers and volunteers. Mike Campbell was extremely pleased with the overall success of the race. “We have received really positive feedback from the riders about how great all of the volunteers were out on the course”, he expressed. “The riders were very appreciative of how well organized this Gran Fondo was and the beauty of the courses. Even though the event sold out very quickly this year, there are no plans to allow more entries in order to keep the current essence of the ride. Campbell explained, “Our goal is to make this event better, not bigger. We will maintain the 400-rider cap.”
