Cyclists from Nova Scotia, Alberta, Ontario, New Brunswick and Massachusetts will join several athletes from Quebec to make history by taking part in the very first edition of the Gaspesia 100! The event’s strong field will be composed of some of Quebec’s best mountain bike marathoners joined by none other than Olympian Lyne Bessette.
It is the mythical Town of Percé that will host the Gaspesia 100, the only 100 mile mountain bike race to be presented in Canada this year. Organized by the Club Vélocipeg de Gaspé and sanctioned by the Fédération québécoise des sports cyclistes (FQSC), the event will be held on the majestic maritime and mountainous territory linking Percé and Gaspé.
“We were convinced that we would come up with an exceptional course, but the result of our land exploration is truly beyond our initial expectations! Our athletes will certainly be amazed by what we have in store for their legs and for their eyes!”, declared the event’s founder, Jean-François Tapp.
The G100 will also feature 75 mile (120 km), 50 mile (80 km) and 25 mile (40 km) races on various sections of the main course, set on the land that allowed the Gaspé peninsula to be recognized by the National Geographic Society as one of the most beautiful natural destinations in the world. Plus, all races will be held in the festive and authentic atmosphere of the Bouette & Bitume Festival.
The event will add to the current tourism offering in Percé according to Marie Leblanc, head of tourism and promotion for the Town of Percé. “Not only is the Gaspesia 100 highlighting the exceptional natural beauties of Percé but it also brings a brand new dimension to the Percé tourism industry which has not often had the chance to welcome athletes in its idyllic setting!,” stated Ms. Leblanc.
For Youth Too!
In addition to offering a challenge to mountain bikers aged 14 and over, Bouette & Bitume Festival also proposes activities for the whole family — and particularly for young people — on its main site on rue du Quai in Percé. The one and only Défi des Mousaillons, aimed at kids aged 7 years and under, will be presented on September 5 in the morning. Those aged 8 to 13 years old will have the opportunity to take part in special challenges the same day in the heart of Percé.
For more information about the Bouette & Bitume Festival, its programming and challenges, visit here.