Now in its fifth year, the ride will take cyclists along the scenic Guelph-to-Goderich rail trail. Dale Hall, a financial advisor at Brantford’s Bellwether Family Wealth, organized the inaugural ride in 2020 as a solo venture due to pandemic restrictions. Since then, the event has grown steadily, raising $47,700 over four editions.
Proceeds from the ride have been earmarked to help purchase a much-needed refrigerated van for the Brantford Salvation Army Food Bank. Replacing the aging vehicle is expected to cost between $80,000 and $100,000, and Hall hopes this year’s ride will make a significant dent in that goal.
“We’re really hoping for a big push this year,” Hall said. “We currently have two cyclists signed up and would like to add two or three more.”
The ride is intentionally kept small, Hall explained, to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. It will take place August 23-24, covering approximately 350 kilometres round trip. Cyclists will ride equal distances each day, averaging speeds of 25 to 30 km/h with scheduled breaks for food and hydration. Support drivers will accompany the riders, handling supplies and ensuring safety. Participants will have two short 15-minute stops and a longer break for lunch.
Last year’s ride followed a route to Niagara Falls and back, raising $24,625 with five riders. This year’s group will follow trails and rural roads as much as possible, minimizing the need for riding alongside highway traffic.
Preparing for the trek requires plenty of practice. Hall noted that participants typically begin training in April with twice-monthly rides, gradually building up to 100-kilometre sessions before the main event. Each cyclist also has a fundraising page, and riders are asked to raise at least $3,000.
