Clare to host new mountain bike event in June

Organizers of the renowned Gran Fondo Baie SainteMarie cycling experience will host their inaugural Terra Fondo gravel ride along the Rails-to-Trails system and other shared-use trails in the Acadian region of Clare on Saturday, June 6.

“Terra Fondo will appeal to the growing mountain biking market while creating a new event to attract visitors to the region during the spring season,” says Larry Peach, tourism manager for the Municipality of Clare.

Participants can choose between two off-road routes. The 19-kilometre option winds through mixed forests with river views, while the 68-kilometre route includes several lake vistas, historic sites, a farmers market and a stretch along the coast.

After the ride, cyclists have a choice of barbecued chicken or vegetarian pizza with local musical entertainment at Le Richelieu, a rustic lodge in

Meteghan River. A branded T-shirt is included with registration (deadline April 30). Organizers encourage early registration as this event has a 200-participant cap.

It’s no coincidence that Terra Fondo is taking place during Nova Scotia Bike Week, which runs from

May 31 to June 7, 2020.

“Terra Fondo is a great way to promote active living and sustainable physical activity. Think of it as a jumpstart to the summer cycling season,” says Réanne Titus, recreation services manager for the Municipality of Clare.

Terra Fondo is a community partnership between Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie, Association Sentier Clare

Rail to Trail Association and Sou’West Nova ATV Association.

Part of the event’s mission is to highlight the 45-kilometre network of shared-use trails within the Municipality of Clare. For more information or to register for the Terra Fondo event, visit https://tinyurl.com/yx68l5ot.

CONTRIBUTED The new Terra Fondo ride is designed to appeal to the growing mountain biking market while creating a new event to attract visitors to the region during the spring season. Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie has attracted cyclists from down the street and around the world since 2015. Its annual September event is renowned for its community spirit, spectacular ocean views and celebratory lobster dinners. It hosted 992 cyclists in 2019, making it the largest cycling experience in Atlantic Canada. Even more are expected for its sixth edition on Sept. 20. Participants can choose from five ride options, ranging in length from 35 to 161 kilometres. The Mini Fondo will be returning for children ages five to 12 on the Saturday of Gran Fondo weekend. For more information or to register, visit https://www. granfondobaiesaintemarie.ca/en/.