Joint cycling event Ride to Remember and Renew raises more that $25,000
CENTRE WELLINGTON – The first Ride to Remember and Renew, held in September, raised over $25,000 more than double its $10,000 goal. Proceeds are split evenly between Aboyne Rural Hospice and the Elora Cataract Trailway Association (ECTA).
About 120 riders took part, well above the target of 75.
They chose from four routes: a family 10K and longer rides of 50K, 75K, and 100K.
The family route drew roughly 69 riders, many of them young families. The event was supported by 64 volunteers and 31 teams and individual fundraisers.
“This ride was about more than cycling. It was about uniting the community behind two causes that matter here,” said Ian MacRae, chair of ECTA. “We’re grateful to every rider, volunteer and sponsor who helped make year one such a success.”
Dr. Sarah Gower, chair of Aboyne Rural Hospice, shared, “This was an incredible event to be able to see all ages come together to support our hospice that will sit among our beautiful trailways. We hope this continues for years to come.”
Riders praised the course, volunteers, food and aid stations.
One stop became known as “the party station” for its music and festive welcome. Photos of the event can be located at the Aboyne Rural Hospice Webpage under the News tab of News and Events.
Local sponsors included The Gund Company, Synchronicity Therapy Solutions and Conestogo Agri Systems. In-kind support was provided by Fergie’s (lunch), Wellington County (venue), Drayton Pharmasave (AID stations), Drayton Freshmart (AID stations), Tailwinds Bed and Breakfast (AID station), Mapleton Township (swag bags), John Northcott (awards), Zain Rahman (music), Fergus Pipe Band (piping), Guelph Wellington Paramedic Service (AEDs), Arctic Clear (water), Orton Community Association (Rest Stop Facilities) and Sophie Hogan (photography).
Aboyne Rural Hospice is raising funds through its Back the Build capital campaign to build a new 10-bed hospice serving rural Wellington County.
ECTA’s fundraising will help replace two twin culverts and restore an ageing bridge, at a combined cost of $600,000, keeping the trailway a safe, accessible multi-use trail that supports health, tourism and active transportation between local communities.
Looking ahead to 2027
Organizers are already planning the 2027 ride.
It is slated for Sept.12, next year.
It will add a new 20 to 25K route, which this year’s riders strongly requested, to fill the gap between the family 10K and the 50K.
Sponsorships for 2027 are now available at three levels: lead (exclusive, $3,000), gold ($1,500) and silver ($500)
In-kind donations are recognized at their equivalent cash value.
