June 15, 2016 (Clare, NS) – On September 25, 2016, join hundreds of cyclists and ride along Nova Scotia’s colourful Acadian Shore for an unforgettable cycling and cultural experience with three routes offered that feature the province’s best.
Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie offers a cycling experience for community residents and visiting outdoor enthusiasts—an experience that highlights the region’s Acadian culture and natural beauty. Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie will appeal to those looking to ride for fun, for good health and to take on a personal challenge, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery in a safe environment. Although a timed event, this is more of a self-paced fun group event, rather than a race. There will also be opportunities to sample Acadian fare at nutrition breaks.
Experienced cyclists will be challenged by a 117 km Gran loop while novice cyclists may prefer the shorter 35 km Piccolo Fondo. Riders will navigate rolling inland roads and pass by towering wooden churches along the panoramic coastal route that hugs beautiful Baie Sainte-Marie. New for 2016 will be a 67 km Medio Fondo, a medium distance that will take participants along the scenic Bas-de-la-Rivière loop with vistas of Baie Sainte-Marie and Digby Neck.
Sign up by August 1st to get a Garneau jersey
The event will start at 8:30 am Sunday morning at the Vélo Baie Sainte-Marie bike shop located at 9976 Highway 1 in Saulnierville. A pork or lobster lunch and prizes will follow. On the Saturday during pre-registration, riders will get a taste of local Acadian culture at the Saulnierville Legion. Participants registered by August 1 will receive an event Louis Garneau jersey. Early-bird registration ($85) is open until August 1st, however registration will be available up until the morning of the event ($125).
Yes! We are working with the community to find houses, camps and rooms for singles, couples and groups of riders. Please contact Louanne at 902-769-0221 or send us an email request and we will find you a place to stay that fits your needs. If you prefer to stay in a hotel, please consider our accommodations sponsors listed on our Travel webpage.
Successful inaugural event
Hot off the heels of a successful inaugural event in September 2015, registration is now open for 2016. In 2015, over 400 cyclists participated in Nova Scotia’s first annual Gran Fondo. “The 2015 Gran Fondo was a great success. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. In 2016, we hope to build on this success, grow this event and welcome even more cyclists,” remarked Ronnie LeBlanc, Warden for the Municipality of Clare. “I look forward to participating once again!” Event organizers are expecting 600-800 participants on Sept 25.
For more information and to register online, visit here.
Watch a narrated promo video below including many great participant testimonials from 2015.