Registration now open for 2024 Tour de Guelph

NEWS RELEASE
TOUR DE GUELPH
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The 11th annual Tour de Guelph presented by Label Design and Scotiabank is being held on Sunday, June 23. Registration is open at TourdeGuelph.ca and trending to be the most well attended since returning to an in-person cycling event after the pandemic.

Tour de Guelph welcomes community members of all ages and abilities to register, fund-raise and enjoy a bike ride together in support of Guelph General Hospital and numerous local charitable programs through the Rotary Clubs of Guelph South and Guelph Trillium.

The event offers cycling routes ranging in distance from 5 km to the Paisley Dental 100-km route. There’s also a multi-surface route and “ride anytime” option. The 5 km and 10 km routes takes place through the quiet streets of The Village by the Arboretum, ideal for young families or those who feel more comfortable away from roads with busy vehicle traffic. All other routes are being newly designed to offer returning riders a new experience, and with a focus on safety for all riders. All styles of pedal bikes are permitted including pedal assist e-bikes. Volunteering at the event is also a fun and meaningful way to participate.

“At The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital, we’re proud to partner with the Rotary Clubs of Guelph South and Guelph Trillium to create a community cycling event that is aligned with our value of inclusivity, with a focus on making the event accessible, safe and welcoming for all,” remarked Julie Byczynski, CEO, The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital.

This year, the event welcomes returning sponsor Label Design as co-presenting sponsor and also welcomes Scotiabank as a new co-presenting sponsor.

“At Scotiabank, giving back to our communities has been a fundamental part of our culture for over 190 years. We are honoured to be sponsoring Tour de Guelph, an event that helps empower individuals, families, and our community to overcome barriers for advancement. Together, we can create a more inclusive and resilient world for every future,” remarked Sophia Miller, District Vice President, Ontario Central West

Frank Oudesluys, Partner at Label Design and Tour de Guelph Co-chair, Rotary Club of Guelph South shared his continued motivation for supporting the event, “There is no other event like Tour de Guelph where the proceeds are shared so widely throughout our community. Not only do proceeds support Guelph General Hospital, but dozens of other local charitable programs receive a portion of the proceeds to fund their important community services. Then there is the event itself which creates a sense of community and belonging among all those that participate, it really is a special event.”

Community members can register at TourdeGuelph.ca and after selecting their preferred distance, they can choose from four registration types:

• Fund-raise to Ride: No registration fee, only a minimum $50 fundraising commitment.
• Free Wheeler: No fundraising commitment, simply pay a $50 registration fee.
• 5/10 km Accessible Bike Loop: A family-friendly and all-ability route with no fee to register in exchange for a $25 minimum fundraising commitment per registrant.
• Ride Anytime: Those unable to join the event day ride can register, fund-raise and complete a bike ride on their own time between June 14 and 23.

Rest stops are along all routes 25 km and longer. With thanks to DENSO Manufacturing Canada, the event’s Snack & Hydration sponsor, water, electrolytes and snacks will be available at the event including all rest stops.

All rides depart from and return to the University of Guelph where there is ample free parking. Registration includes a complimentary BBQ lunch provided by Harvey’s Restaurants of Guelph. Families with young children will also enjoy the Family Fun Zone with bike decorating, face painting and freezies. All riders can have their photo professionally taken on the Finishers’ Podium presented by Elinesky Schuett Private Wealth of RBC Dominion Securities which will be published on GuelphToday.com

The Village of Arbour Trails has joined Tour de Guelph as this year’s Fundraising Rewards Sponsor, making available the coveted custom Tour de Guelph jersey for anyone who fundraises $300 and up.

Full event details can be found on the Tour de Guelph website at www.tourdeguelph.ca.

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