GUELPH – In its 11-year history, Tour de Guelph has raised more than $1.2 million for Guelph General Hospital and other local charitable programs, and three individuals are responsible for a good portion of that total.
At an event held Feb. 18 to celebrate the fundraising efforts of the community cycling event, Ross McKinnell, Mike Diamond and Charlie Barnes were honoured for their significant contributions to the event.
Over the years, these individuals have raised $54,142, $58,093 and $103,986 respectively.
In a news release, top fundraiser Barnes shared his secrets to raising so much money, stating, “ask everyone you know, no matter where they live. People will donate because they want to support you.”
Barnes said he has about 300 people he asks every year via personalized email with a link to his online donation page.
“I always include a personal message such as a reference to a time we share or the last time we saw each other,” he stated, adding he makes sure to thank people, so they continue to support him year after year.
Tour de Guelph welcomes community members of all ages and abilities to register, fundraise 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.
Hospital foundation CEO Julie Byczynski said funds raised pay for things like IV pumps, ultrasound machines, ventilators, a CT scanner, a centralized cardiac monitor, blood pressure monitors, an MRI scanner and operating room equipment.
“Not everyone knows this, but all patient care equipment at the hospital is funded by donations,” Byczynski stated in the release.
Tour de Guelph co-chair and Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium member Liz Fisk also spoke about the volunteer contributions of local Rotary Club members to the event, and the ways in which their efforts benefit the community.
“The health-related impacts on our local community of Rotary’s share of the proceeds from the event are many,” Fisk stated in the release.
“They include support for maternal and child health, special programming and assistive devices for individuals with special needs, poverty initiatives, food for homeless youth and programs fighting food insecurity.”
This month’s celebration event, held at Fixed Gear Brewing Canteen, also honoured Cosmo Carere of Speed River Bicycle for his volunteerism over the past decade.
Carere, who helped to establish the first Tour de Guelph ride in 2014, was announced as the 2025 Tour de Guelph Hall of Fame inductee.
“Cosmo Carere’s dedication to Tour de Guelph has been instrumental in making the event the success it is today,” past co-chair Clarence Haverson stated.
This year’s event will take place on June 22, offering cycling routes ranging from 5km to more than 100km, as well as a multi-surface route and a “ride anytime” option.
For more information or to register visit tourdeguelph.ca.
