CYCLING EVENTS IN ONTARIO

The popularity of road cycling has absolutely exploded in Ontario in the last five years. In addition to the popularity of the sport there is also growing number of cycling events both at the racing and Gran Fondo level. There is something for everyone. You don't have to be a racer to get out there and enjoy the back-roads of Ontario.

Some of the events are categorised as "races" where a chip is attached to your bike and your time is posted at the end. Even if racing is not your thing you can still participate. As the saying goes, "racers race and riders ride". There is usually a range of distances on offer to suit the wide ranging abilities its the participants. Distances can be anywhere from 40 km all the way up to 180 km that will test even the most accomplished cyclist. The most important thing is to come out and have some fun.

In addition to race style events there are also a larger number of Gran Fondo and charity style rides. These events usually have a standard registration fee with the optional addition of fundraising if you wish, although most do not require it. The exception to this rule is the Ride to Conquer Cancer. This is two day event where you pay to register and has an additional minimum fundraising requirement of $2500 to take part in the ride weekend. This is a very large event which usually attracts over 5000 people who collectively raise somewhere near 20 million for the Princess Margaret Cancer Center. A worthwhile weekend to say the least.

Regardless of your skill level you can take part in multiple events throughout the summer months in Ontario. The ones listed on this page are the biggest of the bunch with many more smaller events still available for you to try. All of the smaller ones are charity rides with proceeds donated to local charities. All worthwhile and all are fun. I'll be doing at least 10 events throughout the summer so come out and join me and thousands of others cycling the back-roads of beautiful Ontario.