Cyclopomme Page 2

Between 700 and 800 riders gathered at the school Polyvalent Arthur-Pigeon for the start of the inaugural Cyclopomme event. The miniminum distance was 65 kilometres, but two loops (boucles) were available which would take you to 110 kilometres.

Farm country means quiet roads and great cycling. Roads are for the most part smoothly paved. The first half of the 65 kilometre route is flat but you'll find some gentle climbs in the second half. If you want a work out try the second "boucle"

watching the cows and bikes come home

The region abuts the US border and is famous for the Battle of Chateauguay. On October 26, 1813 a mere 5 days after 4,200 American troops invaded, 1,600 voltigeurs (light troups) convinced them to withdraw. Now, 20 different varieties of apples are grown in the surrounding woods, and dairy cattle graze peacefully in the fields. The only invasion seen these days is from folks riding bicycles.