Getting Ready For Spring

January 6, 2012

Hello Cycling Friend,

Bike Sign Happy New Year to our cycling friends! Join us for the Southern Ontario Century Ride, May 26-27. This is our 25th year of getting people on their bikes.

The Farmer's Almanac says winter in our part of North America will be slightly milder than normal — good news for those hardy folk who bike to work through all seasons. And the Almanac's long-range forecast sees cooler and drier weather in April and May.

But if your plan is to ride indoors this winter, a milder winter and a drier April should get you on the road sooner. So get ready for the Southern Ontario Century Ride. It will be our second year going to Barrie from Toronto, then back the next day.

Register Early and Save

Register before March 5 and we'll hold last year's rate — $115.00 (includes HST). After March 5 the package rate will be $125.00 (includes HST). We also have a day rider rate of $15.00. For Tour du Canada members there is a $5.00 discount on the overnight package rate, regardless of when you register. Registration forms are on the Cycle Canada website in HTML format and PDF format. The HTML is an online form. The PDF is a printable form.

What's new this year: More prizes and mid-ride refreshment stops. At Georgian Suites in Barrie we'll again have fabulous food and accommodations.

What's Included in the Package

On the road we have a choice of metric or imperial centuries each day — 100 kilometres or 100 miles — to Barrie and returning to Toronto. The Toronto check-in desk opens at 8 a.m. Refreshment stops will be at key points on the routes.
For the overnight in Barrie we have attractive two bedroom suites that share a private washroom and mini-kitchen. Linen and towels are provided. Each person has his/her own bedroom. Couples have a private suite. Bikes can be taken into the suites.
Dinner in Barrie on the 26th is barbecued salmon. The vegetarian option is lentil burgers with salsa. Plus salads, grilled vegetables, pasta and potatoes. Dessert will be seasonal fruit platters and assorted pastries. A cash bar in the dining room (indoor) or on the patio opens at 5 p.m.
On the 27th you'll start the day with a hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs, choice of sausage, bacon, pea meal or ham, home fries, pancakes with maple syrup, French toast, fresh fruit salad, mini pastries and muffins and chilled juice. And, of course, freshly brewed coffee and a selection of teas.
The Cycle Canada luggage service will carry your overnight bag to Barrie from one of our two start points — at York University or at the Yonge/Finch subway station. Bags will be returned the next day. At each end of the luggage run we'll have a covered, supervised area.
Support vehicles will have tool kits, pumps, water, fruit and GORP (trail mix). Our staff look forward to meeting you on the road!

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to send us an e-mail or call us on the toll-free number listed below.

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