Available Photos

View details and
download

Cycling PEI, along with representatives from the federal, provincial and municipal governments, today announced details for a new cycling event coming this summer to Prince Edward Island. The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the Honourable Robert Henderson, PEI Minister of Tourism and Culture, and His Worship Clifford Lee, Mayor of the City of Charlottetown, joined members of Cycling PEI in announcing government support for Gran Fondo, a high-end cycling race that will be hosted for the first time in Atlantic Canada.

Gran Fondo rides have been described as cycling’s fastest growing group-ride phenomenon. The events, which originated in Europe, now take place in cities across the United States and central and western Canada. Today’s launch of Gran Fondo PEI will be first event, of its kind, east of Quebec.

Cycling PEI is pleased to have the support of all three levels of government for the event, which is anticipated to attract over 300 cyclists to the Island in its first year. ACOA has invested $22,500, over two years, in Cycling PEI for event marketing. The provincial government, through the Department of Tourism and Culture, has invested $22,500. The City of Charlottetown, through the Special Events Reserve Fund (SERF) and the City of Charlottetown contributed a total of $15,000.

“Our Government recognizes that the tourism industry in Atlantic Canada makes a significant contribution to the region’s economy,” said Minister Shea. “Events such as Gran Fondo PEI can draw visitors from around the world and give our region an opportunity to showcase all we have to offer.”

Gran Fondo PEI will be a three-day riding adventure attracting cyclists from across the country to the Island. The event, taking place August 23 to 25, will offer a number of cycling experiences including three 50 km to 80 km rides, and a 120 kilometer ride. Each ride can be completed at a competitive or leisurely pace. The 120 kilometer ride will be timed, and will have timed sprint and climb sections within it.

“Prince Edward Island is quickly becoming a top of mind destination for cyclists across Canada with its rolling green hills, beautiful vistas, and one of the premiere cycling venues in the country, the Confederation Trail,” said Minister Henderson. “We are proud to play host to this world class cycling event that will highlight our province as a cycling destination."

While cyclists will ride across the Island, the City of Charlottetown will be the main hub of activity hosting the Rider’s Village at the newly completed PEI Convention Centre.

“The City of Charlottetown is proud to be the host of the Rider’s Village and welcomes all of the athletes of Gran Fondo PEI,” said Charlottetown Mayor Clifford Lee. “It is so exciting to see cyclists come from across the country to participate in this world-class event and experience all of the great things that our fantastic City has to offer, especially during such a beautiful time of year.”

Gran Fondo PEI participants will not only experience amazing rides across the Island but will also have an opportunity to take in culinary and cultural experiences. Events for riders and companions will include access to the PEI Jazz and Blues Festival, deep-sea fishing, golf excursion and, of course, all the cuisine and second-to-none hospitality PEI has to offer.

“Gran Fondo events are growing in popularity across the country and we are very excited to bring this premier cycling experience to Atlantic Canada,” said Cycling PEI Executive Director Mike Connolly. “Cycling across the Island, with our scenic views is an amazing experience, and this event gives us the chance to share our passion for PEI with cyclists from across the country.”

Registrations are now being accepted for this event. To learn more visit www.GranFondo-PEI.ca.