Fun activities at Wanakita …
President’s Message
Spring will come! I predict that we will be cycling soon!
Although it has been a particularly long, cold winter our volunteers created activities and events to warm our spirits and keep us fit and the Board continued to work diligently to achieve the goals set out at the AGM. I am also delighted to have Joey Schwartz (Advocacy), Daniel Engels (Treasurer) and Dave Mader (Co‐VP Touring) join the Board.
Activities over the winter included skating (Fred Lee), cross country skiing (Terry Walsh), spinning (Kathleen Harford) and city walks (John Burdett), plus numerous overnight trips to locations that included Arrowhead, Winterlude in Ottawa, Wolf Den and Wanakita. Thank you to our Overnight Trip Director, Jean O’Grady, and to all the organizers including Mike Gurski, Terry Walsh, Paul Price, Brenda Sweet and Frank Remiz. In addition, we had outstanding educational presentations that stimulated those who attended so thanks to Manuela Gobbata, our Educational Director, and to our wonderful presenters.
I can now proudly say that we have a TBN jersey that we can wear with pride. Thanks to all those who submitted designs, the selection committee who chose the winning design, and those who volunteered at the unveiling of our new design at Pauper’s Pub. Thanks particularly to Sharon Chadwick (for coming up with the idea of a design contest), Ed Weiss for organizing the entire process and Susan Bishop for organizing the pub night. Kudos to Robin Silverstein who created the winning design! Now it is up to all of you to buy a jersey by the end of April for a subsidized cost of only $40. I am counting on all of you to purchase your jersey soon and to proudly wear it on TBN rides.
At the AGM there was a strong support for “giving back to the community” with a particular interest in providing support to empower young people by providing them an opportunity to become part of the cycling community. As a Board, we are considering contributing to non‐profit organizations that provide support to young people who do not have the money or means to cycle so will keep you informed as we finalize this initiative.
Volunteers are the key to the success of TBN and at this point I would like to highlight some of our outstanding volunteers: Volunteer of the Year – David Pebbles typifies the TBN spirit. He felt there was a need for a ride during the week that kept riders on paths in parks and ravines as much as possible. He created the maps and built the program from one or two riders to the popular weekly Ravines rides. He never gave up and has constantly revised the maps to ensure the best route possible. He really felt that “if you build it, they will come” and they did. Thank you David.
I also want to highlight two outstanding volunteers who were previously “Volunteers of the Year” as they have given their “all” to TBN. You name a successful TBN event and I am sure that Paul Price and Brenda Sweet had a large part in the success of the event. Paul and Brenda were on the Cyclon Committee, have organized the popular camping trips, Paul was on the Tech Committee and both were the Secretaries of the TBN Board for the last 12 years. Paul and Brenda have retired from their positions as Secretaries for the Board, after so many years of outstanding service. We will miss them on the Board but look forward to their continuing involvement in so many more of the TBN activities. Thank you so much Paul and Brenda.
Although we said thank you to our volunteers at the appreciation night held at Sports Centre Cafe, on St. Clair Avenue West, we can never thank you enough for all that you do.
If you have not volunteered and wish to help out, please let me know and also if you are interested in being the Secretary on the TBN Board; I can be contacted on [email protected] .
Thanks all and I look forward to seeing you on the road soon.
Arlene Smith, President
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 2
President Arlene Smith [email protected] Secretary Vacant [email protected] Advocacy Joey Schwartz [email protected] Cyclon Neil Connolly & George Witte [email protected] Education Manuela Gobbato [email protected] Directors Membership Director Carole Hill [email protected] of
Newsletter Editor (non‐voting) Sharon Chadwick [email protected] Publicity & Promotions Ed Weiss [email protected] Social Susan Bishop [email protected]
Board Treasurer Daniel Engels [email protected]
VP Skiing Terry Walsh [email protected] VP Touring Dave Mader & Richard Anstett [email protected] The Weekend Trips Jean O’Grady [email protected]
Front left to right: Jean O’Grady, Arlene Smith, Brenda Sweet, Ed Weiss, David Mader Back left to right : Daniel Engels, Manuela Gobbato, Terry Walsh, George Witte, Paul Price, Joey Schwartz
Join the TBN Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/tbn.ca Tweet at www.twitter.com/#!/TOBikeNetwork
Editor’s Message Please send articles to [email protected] by the second week of May 2014 to meet the deadline for the Summer issue. Sharon Chadwick, Newsletter Editor
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 3 Friday Night Ice Skating
There were 18 skates over the season. However, the turnout was less than in previous years, averaging six to eight skaters compared to the last few years where twice the number of skaters came out. I'm sure the colder than usual winter has had something to do with it but those who braved the cold had a good time and meal afterwards. The biggest turnout was just over 20 for Colonel Sam Smith Park skating trail.
Skating is an activity that does NOT require TBN membership as we skate on public rinks; most of these are free except for Cedarena and Ice Galaxy. All skill levels are welcome.
For more information, contact Fred Lee on [email protected].
Tales from Wanakita: February 2014
Whether you ride alone or with a group of friends, cycling We went together and it is a fabulous place to spend time is predominantly a solitary activity. It's just you, the bike, with a loved one. You can gain a lot of insight into a person the road and whatever minor inconvenience the day seeing them participating in various activities! Since the ski throws at you, be it rain, a strong head wind or the trails were virtually a sheet of ice, we chose to skip cross knowledge that a territorially challenged Rottweiler is country skiing and try some other activities. How about catching up to your back wheel. So it's an interesting snowshoeing through the back country, or across the change of pace to find yourself and your partner, face to frozen lake under a spectacularly starry bright night sky, face, thirty feet above the group, balanced precariously on with hot chocolate and marshmallows toasting above a a wooden ‘teeter totter’ and totally dependent on one blazing campfire as a bonus, or rediscovering your inner another to keep aloft. This is what happens when you try child while snow tubing down a hill? Visiting a place like fresh and exciting new things that are some of the Wanakita brings you back to when you were a kid and pleasures of doing the trip to Wanakita. everything seemed new and fresh and exciting.
It seems to us that the only way to really enjoy a Canadian This brings us back to the ‘teeter totter’: It is a narrow winter is to do some outdoor activities and the YMCA wooden beam, about a foot‐wide and 12 feet long, Camp Wanakita provides the perfect setting for doing just perched on top of a 30 foot pole; it is hinged in the middle, that. On February 21, a group of 15, mainly TBN members, so it can sway about 10‐15 degrees up and down. Above led by Frank Remiz, headed up to Wanakita that is near each end of the beam is a bucket hanging from a tree, a Haliburton. The day before it had been pouring with rain few feet above the beam, depending on how the beam is so it didn’t look like a promising weekend for winter angled at any time. To get up the pole, you use a series of activities, but such is the wonder of Wanakita, in that metal hooks to pull yourself up bit by bit; that's the easy there were plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. part. Getting onto the beam is a little bit of an adventure
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 4 as there's nothing left to hang onto, just the beam itself On Saturday night, we headed out in the dark to snowshoe and two hooks in the centre. Once you hook your leg over, across the lake. For city dwellers, the starry sky is a treat to you’re sitting facing the centre and then you wait for your see and there were millions of stars visible in the clear partner to follow you up. Sandra and I had decided to do night. Rein and I preceded hand‐in‐hand across the lake this together, the first in the group that had ventured out under the starry canopy; it was a wonderful experience. to this part of the Wanakita camp with our guide Dan. On the other side of the lake, our guide, Dan, lit a fire in a Luckily, Sandra and I are the same height, which is an asset pit surrounded by a circular snow bench and we sat in that in this endeavour. Oh, OK, she's a touch taller than I am! I outdoor cathedral, sipping hot chocolate and toasting pull myself up, and then Sandra does the same; she has an marshmallows until our butts started to get cold. On easier time because of her longer legs. Sunday, tobogganing seemed to be a good idea so we let our inner children out to play, screaming with joy and At the top, we are now sitting across from each other ... on excitement as we careened down the toboggan run. The the beam ... thirty feet up and the beam is ‘teeter snow tubes seemed to be the best vehicle as Rein and I tottering’ with our combined weight! Now the fun part! tried one run tandem on an old‐ fashioned wooden You have to stand on the beam now, work your way to the toboggan and felt every bump. end and slap that bucket hanging above your head. So how do you stand up on a teetering piece of wood with nothing to hold you up? Where do you put your hands and your feet? I should mention that there's no real danger of falling, as we are both wearing harnesses attached to a rope that our belay team on the ground is holding steady. So we're fine just as long as they stayed focused on our ... squirrel!!! No danger of falling … but try telling your brain that when all you can see is a foot wide expanse of wood and lot o'nothing on either side. So what do you do? Just get your feet on the beam … and push off and up!
Sandra watched Rein try to stand up; he was shaking with effort and determination but succeeded and carefully made his way out to the end of the beam and banged that We highly recommend Wanakita as a great place to go and gong. My turn and suddenly my high centre of gravity was experience the joys of winter. a liability. I wasn’t able to manoeuvre my feet onto the beam and couldn’t trust that the belay team below would keep me from falling. Swinging down in the harness was fun; you stand up, sit backwards, as if you’re reclining in an imaginary chair, and let the belay team lower you back to terra firma. Once we were both down, we took our turn on the belay teams for the next pair of adventurers.
Sandra Loughead & Rein Suurallik
The 2015 Wanakita trip is January 16 – 18.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 5 Overnight Trips
May 17 ‐ 26: Kentucky SOLD OUT Visit www.tbn.ca for details including: training guidelines, Eight days of scenic cycling in the rolling hills of Kentucky, registration and more. Cost includes maps, luggage with carrying your gear in panniers. Finish by participating transfer and motel accommodation. Pre‐registration is in the ‘Horsey Hundred 2014’, in Lexington. required to participate in this event. Wait list: [email protected]
June 14 ‐ 15: Toronto‐Niagara‐Toronto Overnight For over 20 years, we have cycled a lovely route that gets you to the heart of Niagara Falls on scenic and traffic‐free inland back roads. There are two departure points: From High Park, Toronto, for a distance of 168 km each way or from Stoney Creek, for a distance of 90 km each way.
Get your spring training in gear to prepare for the TNTO two‐day spring challenge ride! Will you be aiming for your personal best or just out to enjoy the scenery? Other than luggage transfer, this is an unsupported ride and there are no ride leaders or sweeps. You will be challenging your self‐sufficiency, your stamina, and probably your butt! This event is a great target for your TNTO Registration opens early April 2014. cycling season training goals. More information: Contact Brenda Porter on [email protected]. In addition to the beauty and exhilaration of riding past the magnificent falls as you enter Niagara Falls at the end June 20 – 22: Waterloo Wramble of day one, you can celebrate with all the FREE Ride the quiet country roads of the Waterloo Region while watermelon you can eat when you arrive at the motel. enjoying the early summer weather, without the vacation
traffic on the roads. The overnight accommodation is in the student apartments at Wilfrid Laurier University, in four‐person suites, and each suite with individual separate rooms/beds.
Cost is $105 for TBN members with online registration due to open in mid‐March.
More information: Contact Carl Friesen on 289‐232‐4057 or [email protected].
August 22‐24: Tecumseth Tranquilizer Cycle an area just north of the city filled with ‘consonants’ by exploring some favourite TBN destinations, starting from Earl Rowe Provincial Park that is close to Alliston.
Training for the TBN Hairshirt? TNT Overnight is the Deadline for registering online is August 17. perfect training venue as we offer optional distances of More information: Contact Paul & Brenda on 187 and 200 km available from High Park on the first day. [email protected].
The Road Ahead May 26 ‐ June 26 Bike Month June 01 Ride for Heart May 03 ‐ 09 7 Days in May June 07 ‐ 08 The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 6 Cycling Jersey Design Contest
After a Board meeting back in the Fall of 2013, Sharon Woodman, Mick O'Meara, Patrick Li and James Wilson. Chadwick, Newsletter Editor, suggested having a design Also, a big thank you to the selection committee that was contest for a new TBN jersey so worked with Ed Weiss, spearheaded by Marilyn Prole: Sandra Wong, John Publicity & Promotions Director, to make it happen. Burdett, Dinsmore Roach, Jim Chalmers, Arlene Smith and The new TBN cycling jersey was chosen from 13 designs, an anonymous volunteer. submitted by six TBN members. Then a selection TBN is subsidizing the cost of the jersey to encourage all committee of seven TBN volunteers chose one of Robin members to purchase and wear the newly designed jersey. Silverstein’s designs as the winner. However, the selection committee had a very hard time choosing the winning The cost is $40 to members, if ordered by April 30, 2014, design as all 13 designs were worthy of victory. and $50 after that date. Non‐members pay the full price of $59. All prices include taxes. Special thanks go to all TBN members who submitted designs: Robin Silverstein, Sharon Chadwick, Rob Note: Fit kits will be available at the Spring Kick‐off.
Visit http://tbn.ca/about/jersey for instructions on how to order.
Annual Spring Kick‐off
Join us for our annual spring kick‐off event to welcome new members and catch up with old friends. Relax and enjoy a complimentary breakfast before joining one of the many bike rides departing from the park between 10 am and 11 am.
Tentative Date: Saturday, May 10, 2014 from 9 to 11 am.
Tentative Location: Etienne Brulé Park, off Old Mill Road, south of Bloor Street.
Check the website regularly at www.tbn.ca for confirmation of date and location.
Membership If you lead four or more rides in a season, in any ride class, then you are entitled to a complimentary TBN membership renewal. Complete the Ride Report after every ride; upload to the TBN website, within 30 days of the ride, and it will count towards your membership renewal.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 7 Saturday Cruising Shorts All rides start at 9 am unless otherwise noted.
May 03: Holland Marsh Start: Durham College North Parking lot located off Conlin A ‘Wednesday Wheelie’ favourite: This route just north of Road, just west of County Road #2 in Oshawa. Go east on the mega‐city is ideal for early in the cycling season. See Hwy 401, exit at Oshawa (Simcoe Street/CR#2) and the Marsh come alive in the spring and enjoy a few continue north to Conlin Road. training hills on the way. Distance: 59 km Start: King City arena parking lot, located on Doctors Lane, June 07: Hornby/Campbellville first street south, east of the intersection of King Road and A Saturday jaunt along some quiet roads in the Halton Hills Keele Street. without Rattlesnake! Distance: 60 km Start: Hornby Park in Hornby; take Hwy 401 west to May 17: Port Perry Pedlar Trafalgar Road, then head north to Steeles and west to An undulating scenic ride up and down the drumlins of Sixth Line. Durham County. Distance: 67 km
Saturday Morning Rides All rides start promptly at 9:30 am unless otherwise noted.
April 05: High Park to Port Credit May 10: Boardwalk Place to Sunnybrook Park The ride goes to Port Credit for a coffee break, using the The ride goes to Sunnybrook Park, using the Don River Lakeshore Trail west out of Toronto into Mississauga and paths and trails, returning via Victoria Park to the Beaches returning at 12:30 to 1 pm. at approximately 12:30 pm. Start: Grenadier Café Distance: Approximately 40 km Start: Boardwalk Place Distance: Approximately 33 km
April 12: Edwards Gardens to Steeles & Leslie May 17: High Park to Brickworks Market The ride goes through quiet residential streets and cycle The ride goes to the popular Saturday Brickworks Market, paths of North York to Steeles Ave for a coffee break, for a break and maybe some shopping. We ride through returning by a very similar route at 12 to 12:30 pm. central Toronto, using mostly quiet streets and the Beltline Start: Edwards Gardens Distance: Approximately 25 km Trail, returning via the Lakeshore. Start: Grenadier Café Distance: Approximately 50 km April 19: Leslie‐Lakeshore to Tom Goodlad Park The route uses a variety of roads, trails and residential May 26: Boardwalk to Humber River, via Leslie Street Spit streets via the Don River initially, then north easterly to The ride goes west along the Lakeshore Trail, on paths and Tom Goodlad Park, returning with a coffee stop at Tim roads, to the Humber River mouth and the lighthouse, Hortons on Kennedy Road. returning by the same route at approximately 12:30 pm. Start: Leslie‐Lakeshore Tim Hortons Start: Boardwalk Place Distance: Approximately 35 km Distance: Approximately 38 km May 31: Victoria Park to Guildwood, via Hydro corridor April 26: Old Mill to Humber College The ride goes north and east, using paths and residential The ride goes to Humber College for a coffee break roads, to loop back to the start, via the Lakeshore Trail, returning by a slightly different route, using another and finishing at approximately 12:30 to 1 pm. branch of the Humber River trail, at 12:30 to 1pm. Start: Victoria Park subway station Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: Approximately 47 km Distance: Approximately 40 km
May 03: Boardwalk Place to Guildwood June 07: High Park to Port Credit The ride goes to the Guildwood Parkway for a coffee The ride is to Port Credit for a coffee break, using the break, using the Lakeshore Trail that is a mixture of paths Lakeshore Trail west out of Toronto into Mississauga and and residential roads and returns via a slightly different returning at 12:30 to 1 pm. route by 12:30 to 1 pm. Start: Grenadier Café Distance: Approximately 40 km Start: Leslie‐Lakeshore Tim Hortons Distance: Approximately 35 km *** Refer to back page for common start locations ***
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 8 Sunday Easy Roller Rides All rides start at 10 am unless otherwise noted.
April 7: Guild Inn May 18: Highland Creek Visit the famous Scarborough Bluffs and see the grounds Ride out to the Guildwood area, and then take a scenic loop of the Guild Inn with lunch at the Tim Hortons, that through the Highland Creek park trail system down to the replaced the beloved Cornerstone Café, or at other lake with lunch at the Tim Hortons, that replaced the choices nearby. Cornerstone Café. Start: Boardwalk Place Distance: 37 km Start: Boardwalk Place Distance: 52 km April 13: Mimico Creek May 19 (Monday ‐ Victoria Day): Maple Ride mostly on trails and quiet streets before stopping A shortened holiday version of the ride to Maple, that is for lunch at Tim Hortons, across from Sherway Gardens. mostly on quieter streets, with a snack stop at Tim Hortons. From there, it is a short ride to connect with the trails However, if the trails are dry, we may take the return route again, head down to the Lakeshore and back to the start. that mostly stays off of roads. Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: 35 km Start: Finch Subway Distance: 35 km April 20 (Easter): Maple May 25: Tour of Mississauga A shortened holiday version of the ride to Maple, that is A route that takes us a bit further north and west for a mostly on quieter streets, with a snack stop at Tim change, with some longer stretches for a good workout. Hortons. However, if the trails are dry, we may take the Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: 57 km return route that mostly stays off of roads. Start: Finch Subway Distance: 35 km June 8: Dim Sum / Tim Sum North on the Humber trail, then west on the Eglinton bike April 27: Etobicoke Meander trail, through Centennial Park, with lunch in a Dim Sum A round trip, on streets and paths, of the beautiful restaurant or Tim Hortons for those who prefer the usual Etobicoke with lunch at Tim Hortons. fare and need to get back sooner. Start: Grenadier Café Distance: 40 km Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: 47 km May 4: Kingsway Ride June 15: High Park ‐ Centennial Park ‐ Port Credit Wander the lovely neighbourhood back streets of Parks and river banks are the theme of this scenic tour. Ride Etobicoke and return along the Lakeshore Trail. through two parks and along the banks of two rivers to lunch Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: 35 km in Mississauga, with a return along the Waterfront trail. May 11 (Mothers’ Day): Credit River Tour Start: Grenadier Cafe Distance: 57 km
A nice ride along the Lakeshore and up the Credit River to lunch in Mississauga. Start: Etienne Brulé Park Distance: 52 km *** Refer to back page for common start locations ***
Date Ride Distance Start
April 06 Pre‐season LW Ride 24 km Queen's Park
April 13 Todmorden Mills 24 km Queen's Park am.
April 20 Asphalt Trail 25 km Shoppers World 10
April 27 Mimico Creek Expedition 26 km Etienne Brulé Park at May 04 Leslie Street Spit 30 km Boardwalk Place May 11 Scarborough Bluffs 38 km Queen's Park
start
Wheelers
May 18 Mark's Secrets of Scarborough 32 km Shoppers World
rides May 19 Heavenly Holiday 24 km Queen's Park
May 25 Maple Bakery 35 km Finch Subway Station June 08 Scarborough See the Geese 40 km Kennedy Subway Station
Sunday June 15 Dim Sum Ride 40 km Finch Subway Station Leisure June 22 Edwards Gardens 37 km Finch Subway Station June 29 Randy's Ramble 48 km Etienne Brulé Park
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 9 Introduction of new Tourist Ride Coordinator
I’m Joey Schwartz and I’m the new co‐ordinator for Sunday before; but only if you have an electronic device to view Tourist and Advanced Tourist rides. Firstly, let me thank them with in the field, which many of you cannot do Owen Rogers for his years of dedication and leadership to currently. So by the time riding season begins, I expect to this program. His route pioneering will have its imprint on have maps of similar quality as last year if you wish to print this ride program for years to come. them, though they may be on multiple pages.
So with new leadership comes – surprise, surprise – some The main paper‐based element that is ready to go now, changes that you will hopefully like and embrace. To begin are the cue‐sheets. I think you will find them clean, easily with, the rides will rotate between four‐starting points, readable, as well as formatted for the smaller map holders roughly corresponding to north, west, south and east. The that most riders use. The cue sheets for each ride should starting locations should be familiar to most riders: Finch be downloaded and printed in advance of the ride. Subway Park ‘n’ Ride on Hendon Avenue; Kipling Subway If you are into longer distance rides, I have set up several north or south Park ‘n’ Ride; the parking lot in High Park routes that are in the 170 to 213 km range, some of them for Grenadier Cafe; the south parking lot, next to FreshCo, leading up to the “Hairshirt” in late June. for McCowan Subway. On the Short Tourist routes, there has been a request to Starting with the first April ride to the end of November, make it more like an Advanced Easy Roller ride, with more there will be six route options every Sunday, including a formal regrouping and ride leaders but at a faster pace. As Century and a Short Tourist route. Also new for this year, such, I am looking for people to be ride leaders for the TBN has finally embraced the power of the digital age, so 10:00 am Short Tourist Rides, from 60 to 70 km. One all the maps will be available ahead of time. Furthermore, benefit of leading a ride is that if you lead four rides, your since we are using “Ride with GPS”, if you have a Garmin membership for the year is free, so please contact me if GPS unit, you can directly load the routes to your device you wish to be a leader. ahead of time. If, like me, you use a smartphone and a GPS app like “Cyclemeter” or “MapMyRide”, you can download We’ll be having a Tourist Ride kick‐off meet and greet a GPX file that works with your smartphone. party soon so check the website regularly for details.
Printed maps are still a work in progress, as the “Ride with Looking forward to a great new riding season. GPS” maps need significant post‐production work to actually be functional on the black & white page. The maps Joey Schwartz are actually more detailed than anything we’ve had Tourist Ride Co‐ordinator
Sunday Advanced Tourist Rides All rides start at both 8:30 am and 10:00 am unless otherwise noted.
March 30: Unionville Brunch 10:00 AM ONLY Start: Grenadier Cafe First ride of the season is a leisurely one through suburban Distance: 160 km, 150 km & 138 km side streets and country roads of York and Durham April 13: Tecumseth–Caledon Hills Adventure Century regions. The ride north eventually brings us to the historic Starting from our Newtonbrook base, we ride up the Village of Unionville where we meet for a bit of pub fare at rolling hills to Schomberg to grab a fair trade coffee at the Jakes on Main before heading back to Finch. Three routes rustic Grackle Coffee Company. Then off to Tottenham for to enjoy getting the cobwebs out your muscles and gear. lunch, south through the Caledon Hills and the last stage Start: Finch Subway starts when riding through Kleinburg back to Finch, via Distance: 98 km, 75 km & 65 km Maple. April 6: High Park to Hamilton Flat Century Start: Finch Subway For many, this will be their first ride of the season. A rather Distance: 167 km, 141 km & 123 km flat ride along Lakeshore Road all the way to Hamilton and April 18: Holiday Unionville Brunch 10:00 AM ONLY points beyond. Lunch will be at the independent Coffee Good Friday ride to celebrate the beginning of another Culture Cafe & Eatery in Burlington. Three distances to suit great year. A leisurely ride through suburban side streets your fitness or time constraints.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 10 Sunday Advanced Tourist Rides All rides start at both 8:30 am and 10:00 am unless otherwise noted. and country roads of York and Durham regions. The ride Start: Kipling Subway north eventually brings us to the historic Village of Distance: 180 km, 150 km & 135 km Unionville where we meet for a bit of pub fare at Jakes on May 18: High Park Dystopic Century Main before heading back Finch. Three routes to enjoy Riding from "utopian" High Park, at least that is how its getting the cobwebs out your muscles and gear. founder John Howard felt about it, we will be touring the Start: Finch Subway "dystopian" urban remains of the former industrial giant Distance: 97 km, 74 km & 65 km Steelco in Hamilton, before we head for the hills and then April 20: Lakeshore–Campbellville Century ride through the suburban landscape of Mississauga. Two Starting from the friendly industrial confines of the Kipling food stops: Coffee Culture Cafe & Eatery in Burlington and Park ‘n’ Ride, follow Lakeshore Road to the quiet back‐ then the Brown Dog Coffee Shoppe in Waterdown. roads as we climb the escarpment to eat and drink at The Start: Grenadier Cafe Trail Eatery, in Campbellville. For those that want an extra Distance: 167 km, 150 km & 135 km challenge, take the shortest route, as it winds up the May 19: Holiday Agincourt to Stouffville 10:00 AM ONLY infamous Rattlesnake Point hill, one of the most difficult Victoria Day ride through the Rouge Valley and farmlands climbs in Southern Ontario. The good news is that it is all north of there. Lunch at the Lion Pub in Stouffville. downhill from the Eatery. Start: McCowan Subway Start: Kipling Subway Distance: 109 km, 84 km & 64 km Distance: 160 km, 133 km & 119 km May 25: Agincourt to Goodwood Century April 27: Agincourt to Port Perry — Where's King Henry? The cycling season is hitting into high‐gear. Agincourt is What would a TBN ride be without going to "deepest" our launching point, we attack the rolling terrain north of Scarborough? With the McCowan Subway as our launching the Metro Zoo and its fertile farmland, adding an authentic point, we attack the rolling terrain north of the Metro Zoo, "country feel" to our ride. Excellent sandwiches at and its fertile farmland, adding an authentic "country feel" Annina's Bakeshop in Goodwood. A great chance to see to our ride. Excellent sandwiches and pub grub at Harp & the area northeast of Toronto while you still can. Wylie's Canadian Grill House in Port Perry. Wonder if Start: McCowan Subway Henry the 5th would approve? Distance: 168 km, 140 km & 122 km Start: McCowan Subway Distance: 168 km, 140 km & 122 km June 8: Agincourt to Kawartha Lakes Century What would bike month be without a super long‐distance May 4: Newtonbrook to Alliston Century century? A great tune up event for those about to do the Did you say hills? Well we got ‘em galore on this one. ultimate double century, the "TNT Hairshirt" the next Starting from our Newtonbrook base, we ride up the week. This century is not quite as ambitious, coming in rolling hills to Schomberg to grab a fair trade coffee at the about 110 km shorter than the Hairshirt. The full ride goes rustic Grackle Coffee Company. Then off to Alliston for all the way to Linsday, in the Kawartha Lakes region; lunch, south through more hilly terrain in the Caledon Hills shorter rides go to Port Perry. Physical endurance, plus and the last stage starts when we ride through Kleinburg rides around some scenic lakes and countryside. back to Finch, via Maple. Start: McCowan Subway Start: Finch Subway Distance: 213 km, 158 km & 132 km Distance: 169 km, 141 km & 123 km *** FREE for non‐members as BIKE MONTH *** May 11: Lakeshore–Forks of the Credit Century A ride south along the Lakeshore and then up the escarp‐ June 15: Newtonbrook to Mount Albert Century ment to Acton. We dine at Tanners Pub & Grill, across Starting from our Newtonbrook base, we ride up the from the Olde Hide House, so you know it will be “worth rolling hills with a break at the Coffee Culture Cafe in the cycle to Acton”. The three rides diverge from here; the Bradford. Then off to Mount Albert for lunch at the Prince short ride goes just a little further north, while the century Albert Pub; we then head south through Markham. ride goes all the way to the Forks of the Credit Provincial Start: Finch Subway Park. All rides converge just north of the 401, and then Distance: 164 km, 138 km & 121 km take urban streets back to Six Points (Kipling– DunBloor).
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 11 Sunday Tourist Rides All rides start at both 8:30 am and 10:00 am unless otherwise noted.
March 30: Unionville Brunch 10:00 AM ONLY April 27: Agincourt to Where Port Perry Ain't First ride of the season is a leisurely one through suburban What would a TBN ride be without going to "deepest" side streets and country roads of York and Durham Scarborough? With the McGowan Subway as our regions. The ride north eventually brings us to the historic launching point, we attack the rolling terrain north of the Village of Unionville where we meet for a bit of pub fare at Metro Zoo, and its fertile farmland adding an authentic Jakes on Main before heading back to Finch. Three routes "country feel" to our ride. to enjoy getting the cobwebs out your muscles and gear. Start: McGowan Subway Start: Finch Subway Distance: 111 km, 90 km & 75 km Distance: 98 km, 75 km & 65 km May 4: Newtonbrook to Nobleton April 6: High Park, Lakeshore Flat Starting from our Newtonbrook base, we ride up the For many, this will be the first ride of the season. A rather rolling hills up to Nobelton to grab food and coffee at the flat ride along Lakeshore, all the way to Burlington. Lunch Cappuccino Bakery on King Rd, Nobel ton. The 80 km route is at independent coffee houses: the 100 km stops at has the option of visiting an old club favourite stop, Dario’s Coffee Culture Cafe & Eatery in Burlington; the 78 km Bakery, in Kettle by. stops at CJ's Cafe in Bronte and finally, the 64 km, stops at Start: Finch Subway the Oakville Towne Square, where The Greenbean Coffee Distance: 92km, 80km & 61km House will re‐energize you. If you need a break in either May 11: Lakeshore to Oakville direction, The Guilty Dog Coffee House – off Lakeshore in Starting from the friendly industrial confines of the Kipling Mississauga – is a great place to take a break. Three Subway, the ride follows Lakeshore Road through to distances to suit your fitness or time constraints. Oakville on the longest routes. Lunch is at Tim Hortons in Start: Grenadier Cafe Mississauga. Distance: 100 km, 78 km & 64 km Start: Kipling Subway April 13: New Tecumseth? What got in ta ya? Distance: 101 km, 78 km & 64 km Starting from our Newtonbrook base, we ride up the May 18: High Park to Streets Ville rolling hills to Schomberg to grab a fair trade coffee at the Enjoy the almost summer riding conditions while they last; rustic Grackle Coffee Company. Then off to Tottenham for this Tourist ride along the lake shore goes through some of lunch, south through Caledon Hills and the last stage starts the towns that make up the western border of when riding through Kleinburg back to Finch, via Maple. Mississauga. Lunch is at Tim Hortons in Streets Ville. Two Start: Finch Subway routes back, including a great bikeway past the Erin dale Distance: 109 km, 81 km & 61 km Campus, University of Toronto, in Mississauga. April 18: Holiday Unionville Brunch 10:00 AM ONLY Start: Grenadier Café Good Friday ride to celebrate the beginning of another Distance: 101 km, 83 km & 68 km great year. A leisurely ride through suburban side streets May 19: Holiday Agincourt to Stoufville 10:00 AM ONLY and country roads of York and Durham regions. The ride Victoria Day ride through the Rouge Valley and farmlands north eventually brings us to the historic Village of north of there. Lunch at the Lion Pub in Stoufville. Unionville where we meet for a bit of pub fare at Jakes on Start: McGowan Subway Main before heading back Finch. Three routes to enjoy Distance: 109 km, 84 km & 64 km getting the cobwebs out your muscles and gear. Start: Finch Subway May 25: Agincourt to Brooklin Distance: 97 km, 74 km & 65 km Time to discover the eastern suburbs of Toronto from the Rouge Park to Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa and April 20: Lakeshore–Sort of Campbellville Markham: ride a mixture of suburban streets, highways Starting from the friendly industrial confines of the Kipling and country roads with rolling terrain through fertile Park ‘n’ Ride, follow Lakeshore Road through the bike path farmland. Longer routes will have high‐speed traffic system of Mississauga and lunch at Tim Hortons. passing cyclists at some points. Start: Kipling Subway Start: McCowan Subway Distance: 90km, 78km & 68km Distance: 97 km, 78 km & 60 km
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 12 Sunday Country Cruises All rides start at 10 am unless otherwise noted.
April 06: Holland Marsh May 18: The Port Hope ‘Hilltop’ A ‘Wednesday Wheelie’ favourite: This route just north of A return to the ever‐popular area around Port Hope. Enjoy the mega‐city is ideal for early in the cycling season. See undulating roads with awesome scenery including the Marsh come alive in the spring and enjoy a few gorgeous vistas of Lake Ontario, especially following an training hills on the way. amazing and memorable climb up Starkville hill. Start: Meet at the King City arena parking lot, located on Start: Meet at the Port Hope Town Hall. Take exit 461 Doctors Lane, first street south, east of the intersection of from Hwy 401, follow Hwy 2 to downtown; the town hall is King Road and Keele Street. at 56 Queen Street. Distance: 61 km, 68 km & 75 km Distances: 51 km, 74 km & 94 km
April 13: Credit River Cruising May 25: Mount Albert Tour An undulating ride through the wilds north of Brampton. A scenic jaunt through the rolling farmland around Mount Start: Meet at Alloa School, on the north side of Mayfield Albert, with a lunch stop on the shores of Lake Simcoe at Road (second road north of Hwy 7), just east of the Peninsula Restaurant or bring lunch. Mississauga Road. Start: Meet in Mount Albert at the Mount Albert Distances: 47 km, 66 km & 89 km Community Centre. Take Hwy 404 north, Davis Drive east, April 20: Beeline to Bowmanville Hwy 48 north. Go right on York Road 13 (Mount Albert A popular and quiet undulating route from Oshawa to Road) into Mount Albert, left on King Street, right on Main Bowmanville. Street to the Mount Albert Community Centre. Start: Go east on Hwy 401, exit at Oshawa (Simcoe Distances: 71 km & 82 km Street/CR#2) and continue north to Conlin Road; meet at June 01: ABC Tour a.k.a. Alliston, Borden, Creemore Durham College North Parking lot, located off Conlin Road, A fairly easy ride with some gentle rolling hills near Alliston just west of County Road #2 in Oshawa. and Creemore. The long route has a scenic and hilly loop Distances: 62 km & 82 km through Glen Huron. Bring a picnic lunch for the short ride; April 27: Sutton – Lake Simcoe Tour the medium and long rides have lunch in Creemore. A scenic jaunt along the cottage‐lined shores of Lake Start: The public parking lot in the Town of Alliston, at the Simcoe and the surrounding countryside; bring lunch for a end of Mill St, about 85 km from Toronto. Take Hwy 400 picnic by the lake. north to exit 75, Cookstown, go west on Hwy 89, about 18 Start: Meet in Sutton at the Peter Gzowski Library. Take km, to Church Street. Mill Street is the next street west of Hwy 404 north, Davis Drive east, Hwy 48 north. Go left on Church Street. Do not park at the Beer Store. No High Street into Sutton, right on Dalton Road, left on Black washrooms at the starting point. River Road to the Peter Gzowski Library. Distances: 74 km, 84 km, 93 km and 106 km Distances: 64 km & 84 km June 08: Port Perry Pedlar May 04: Triple ‘H’ a.k.a. Hornby Halton Hills (to Lowville) An undulating scenic ride up and down the drumlins of True to form the hills of Halton loom; enjoy this route as it Durham County. takes you to Lowville for a picnic lunch in the park. Start: Go east on Hwy 401, exit at Oshawa (Simcoe Street/ Start: Meet at the Hornby parking lot. Exit Hwy 401 CR#2) and continue north to Conlin Road Meet at Durham westbound at Trafalgar Road, then head north to Steeles College North Parking lot, located off of Conlin Road, just Avenue and west to Sixth Line. west of County Road #2 in Oshawa. Distances: 67 km, 85 km & 100 km Distances: 73 km & 83 km
May 11: Schomberg to Caledon East June 15: Stouffville to Uxbridge A ride in the lovely countryside north of Schomberg, with Follow the shady, rolling back roads of Durham region to rolling terrain and lunch in Caledon East. Uxbridge and back again. Start: Take exit 55 off Hwy 400 and head west on County Start: Meet at the North Stouffville Free Park. Go north on Road 9 to 20th Side Road (first road west of Hwy 27); head Hwy 404 to Stouffville Road and then east to the Stouffville south on 20th Side Road to the arena that is just west of Free Park on the north side of Main Street, past the train Main Street. tracks and before Market Street. Distances: 74 km & 93 km Distances: 61 km, 76 km & 86 km
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 13 Tuesday Ravine Rides Enjoy park paths without the weekend crowds. The Ravine Rides are a series of relatively short rides at a moderate pace, generally taking 1–3 hours. These subway accessible rides start at 10:30 am, on Tuesdays, from mid‐April to the end of October. The routes avoid busy streets as much as possible. Although some of the routes include unpaved paths, a mountain bike is not necessary. Optional coffee and sandwich stop after each ride. Distances are approximate, and routes are subject to change due to weather and trail conditions.
April 15: The Humber Yo‐Yo May 13: Mimico Creek and the Humber v2.1 A great way to warm up your cycling muscles after a long Paved paths and only a few blocks of street riding. winter: a paved path with gentle grades along one of the Start: Etienne Brulé Park nicest stretches of the Humber River. The route is almost Distance: 22 km totally car‐free. Start: Etienne Brulé Park May 20: Balfour and the Beltline Distance: 20 km David Balfour Park, Moore Park, the Beltline, and Cedarvale Park. Some unpaved paths. April 22: The Secret Circuit Start: Taddle Creek Park The very first (and shortest) Tuesday ride followed this Distance: 19 km route. Here is the original description from 2003 “A half‐ hidden ravine ride for freelancers, shift workers, people May 27: Black Creek and Back between jobs, retirees, and ne’er‐do‐wells. This downtown Devised by Dinsmore, this new route uses recently route has a minimum of street riding and only two hills extended hydro line bike paths to access a series of parks (OK, so the first one is Poplar Plains). Some unpaved in the northwest. All of the route is paved except for a paths.” 100 m or so of gravel. Start: Taddle Creek Park Start: Finch Subway Distance: 14 km Distance: 30 km
April 29: East End Excursion June 3: Cedarvale Prospecting This ride has a bit of everything: ravines, a cemetery, two Cedarvale Park and the Beltline extension. Some unpaved cannons, an industrial park, quiet residential streets and a paths and street riding. stairway. All but 100 m on pavement. Start: Taddle Creek Park Start: Kennedy Subway Distance: 19 km
Distance: 22 km June 10: Bloordale and Mimico Creek May 6: 3M (Mary’s Meander Modified) Short Form Explore the western edge of the city. A bit of street riding The lower Don, a bit of the Martin Goodman Trail and a takes us to paths in two nice long ravines. Includes a short couple of small parks paralleling the long‐buried Garrison stretch of unpaved road. Creek. All but a few metres of the route is paved; some Start: Kipling Subway street riding. Distance: 19 km
Start: Taddle Creek Park Distance: 23 km *** Refer to back page for common start locations ***
Always check the Go to http://tbn.ca/photos for website the night process of sending your videos before or the morning and photos to ‘PhotoAdmin’ to of a ride for changes add to Flickr for all members and/or cancellations to enjoy. due to bad weather.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 14 Wednesday Wheelie Rides All rides start at 10am; except during July and August.
March 26: King City to Bradford May 7: Markham to Mount Albert / Musselman Lake A 63 km ride north from King City, through Holland Marsh, A 69 or 86 km ride from Markham to Mount Albert and/or to lunch at Tim Hortons in Bradford. Meet at the Musselman Lake. Meet at Berczy Park in Markham. To get Municipal Parking Lot located at the northwest corner of to Berczy Park: Go north on Hwy 404, east on Major King Road and Keele Street. To get to King City: Drive Mackenzie Dr, turn right on Kennedy Rd, left onto north on Hwy 400 to the King Side Road (Exit 43), then go Castlemore Ave, right onto The Bridle Walk and left onto east to Keele Street and turn left. Weatherill Rd into Berczy Park. *** Note start location is in Markham *** April 2: Hornby to Campbellville A 67 km ride west from Hornby to Campbellville for lunch May 14: Durham College to Port Perry at the Trail Eatery. Meet at Hornby Park. To get to Hornby: A 60, 70, or 81 km ride from Durham College at the north Take the 401 to Trafalgar Road (Exit 328), then go north to of end of Oshawa to Port Perry on Lake Scugog. the lights at Steeles, turn left and drive 2 km to Hornby Meet at the arena of Durham College. Go east on Hwy 401, Park that is on your left. take Thickson Road (exit 412) and drive north to Conlin Road, then east to Durham College; turn left at the lights April 9: Stouffville to Goodwood and drive past the Tennis Centre to the arena parking lot.
A 61 or 73 km ride north from Stouffville to Goodwood for May 21: Campbellville to Waterdown/Lowville lunch at Annina’s Bakeshop. Meet at the free Parking Lot A 66, 75, or 111 km ride from Campbellville, past on Park Drive, just south of Main Street in Stouffville. To Waterdown, to lunch in Lowville. Meet at the get to Stouffville: Drive north on Hwy 404 to the Stouffville Campbellville New Ball Park. To get to Campbellville: Go Side Road and then east into Stouffville. west on Hwy 401 to Guelph Line (exit 312), drive south
over the 401 and immediately turn right onto Reid Side April 16: Keswick along the Lake Road; the entrance to the Ball Park lot is on the south side. A 67 or 82 km ride from Keswick along the edge of Lake Simcoe, past Sibbald Point Provincial Park, to lunch at May 28: Schomberg to Hockley Virginia Beach. Meet at West Park on Ravenshoe Road. A 65 or 94 km ride from Schomberg to lunch in the village To get to Keswick: Drive north on the 404 to Green Lane, of Hockley. Meet at the Arena parking lot in Schomberg. turn left (west) onto Green Lane, turn right onto Leslie Schomberg is just west of Hwy 27 and south of Hwy 9; the Street (CR 12), go north to Keswick and turn left on Arena is on the west side of Main Street in Schomberg, just Ravenshoe Road; West Park is just west of The south of Hwy 9. Queensway, at the bottom of the hill. June 4: Bradford to Innisfil Beach April 23: Hornby to Rockwood A 75 or 83 km ride from Bradford north to Innisfil Beach on A 71 or 81 km ride north from Hornby to Rockwood for Lake Simcoe. Meet at the parking lot of the Bradford and lunch at the Eramosa River Cafe. District Community Centre on Simcoe Road, south of Meet at Hornby Park. To get to Hornby: Take the 401 to Holland Street. To get to Bradford: Drive north on Hwy 400 Trafalgar Road (Exit 328), then go north to the lights at to Hwy 88 (exit 64) and east into Bradford. Turn right Steeles, turn left and drive 2 km to Hornby Park that is on (south) at Simcoe Street, then turn left again at Edward St; your left. the Community Centre is straight ahead.
April 30: Schomberg to Caledon East June 11: Mount Albert to Lake Simcoe A 74 or 92 km ride from Schomberg to lunch at Trailside A 57, 79, or 91 km ride from Mount Albert along the Cafe, in Caledon East. Meet at the Arena parking lot in shores of Lake Simcoe. Medium and Long rides go to Schomberg. Schomberg is just west of Hwy 27 and south Keswick. Meet at the Community Centre parking lot on of Hwy 9; the Arena is on the west side of Main Street in Main Street in Mount Albert. To get to Mount Albert: Go Schomberg, just south of Hwy 9. north on Hwy 404, then east on Davis Drive to Hwy 48, north to Mount Albert Side Road, east to Centre Street, turn left and then turn left again onto Main Street.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 15 Wednesday Night Rides All rides start at 6:30 pm unless otherwise noted.
April 23: Ride around Don Valley May 28: Riverdale Park to Beaches The first ride of the season is a leisurely ride through The ride is the start of ‘Bike Month’ so $5 non‐member fee suburban side streets of Rosedale, Summerhill and East is waived. York following the rim of the valley. Start: Riverdale Park at Langley and Broadview Avenue Start: Riverdale Park at Langley and Broadview Avenue Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km June 4: Terry’s Mystery Ride April 30: High Park to Humber River Ride to Weston and return via the Kingsway to Old Mill. Ride around quiet streets and parks near the Humber River Start: Etienne Brulé Park Valley. Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km Start: Grenadier Cafe Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km June 11: Waterfront to Marie Curtis Park Come out for an enjoyable ride on city paths and quiet May 7: Midtown to Forest Hill roads to see something different; finish at the ‘Bar With Ride from midtown to Forest Hill. No Name’. Start: Moore Avenue & Mallory Crescent (one block east Start: Grenadier Cafe of Bayview Avenue) Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km June 18: North York Neighbourhoods May 14: High Park to James Gardens Ride the quiet streets of North York to take in the finest The route is from High Park to James Park, via the Humber homes slowly being converted from bungalows to Trail, and then north to near Eglinton Avenue. The return is mansions. down the Humber Trail again to the Lakeshore and Martin Start: Edwards Gardens Goodman Trail; finish at the Sunnyside Café. Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km Start: Grenadier Cafe Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km June 25: East to West & Back Ride across the Waterfront and return via the Davenport May 21: East to Main Street & Upper Beaches bike lanes. A nice neighbourhood ride to the upper Beaches. Start: Riverdale Park at Langley and Broadview Avenue Start: : Riverdale Park at Langley and Broadview Avenue Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km Distance: 20 ‐ 30 km
*** Reminder to bring lights and wear reflective clothing for night rides ***
Friday Night Rides All rides start at 6:30 pm unless otherwise noted.
Date Ride Distance Start Social Event April 11 High Park to Etobicoke Creek and back to the Junction 28 km Grenadier Café Indie Ale House April 25 High Park to Humber Trail and Sunnyside Pavilion 20.5 km Grenadier Café Sunnyside Pavilion May 02 High Park to York Belt Line and back 25 km Grenadier Café Grenadier Café May 09 Bridgepoint to Warden Woods and Pottery Road 24.5 km Bridgepoint Health Whistler's Restaurant May 16 High Park through the Annex and back 26 km Grenadier Café The Sister May 23 Boardwalk Place to Scarborough and back 30.5 km Boardwalk Place Boardwalk Place May 30 High Park to Etobicoke Creek and back to the Junction 28 km Grenadier Café 3030 Bar June 06 Bridgepoint to the Belt Line and then to the Danforth 27 km Bridgepoint Health Astoria Shish Kebob House
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 16
How/when do I get the tour maps? When you arrive for registration, you will be provided with an information package and a complete set of maps with detailed route information. In addition, the information package will contain maps to local attractions and services and a complete schedule of weekend events.
GENERAL INFORMATION ACCOMMODATION
What is Cyclon? Cyclon is a 3‐day cycle touring mini‐ We will be staying at the University of Ottawa, located on vacation that takes place over the August Civic Holiday long the east side of the Rideau Canal in downtown Ottawa. weekend. It is the major annual event of the Toronto The residence is within walking distance to many great Bicycling Network (TBN), a club for recreational cyclists with historic and cultural Ottawa landmarks. All breakfasts will over 800 members. TBN is a not‐for‐profit club and Cyclon is be hosted in the building next door to the residence. a not‐for‐profit event. In its 28th year, Cyclon has previously visited Peterborough, Kingston, Barrie, St. Catharines, Waterloo, Guelph, Belleville and London.
Where will Cyclon be held in 2014? Cyclon is being held in Ottawa for the first time, taking advantage of the city and exploring the green and natural areas of the Capital Region.
The University Residence features two bedroom suites (exactly the same as Conestoga or Georgian Colleges) with one double bed in each room, semi‐private wash‐ rooms (one washroom shared between two adjoining rooms), a kitchenette with fridge and microwave oven, air‐conditioning, elevator access and lounges with tele‐
visions on each floor. Plus fabulous views over downtown CYCLING Ottawa and Gatineau. Accommodation is for all three nights i.e. Friday arrival to Monday departure. However, What are the tour routes like? The National Capital Region you are encouraged to extend your weekend by an extra offers fantastic cycling, some of which is on bike paths and day or two, to enjoy the sights and cycling around the car‐free roads! We have chosen a number of different National Capital Region; special rates have been arranged cycling routes for each day of Cyclon ranging in length from at the Residence for those wishing to lengthen their stay. approximately 40 to 170 km in length that are based on the TBN ride categories: Leisure Wheeler, Easy Roller, Short What is provided in the bedrooms? All bed linen, towels, Tourist, Tourist and Sportif. For more information on these and face cloths are provided, but you may wish to bring categories, visit http://tbn.ca/programs/cycling. An extra towels or your favourite blanket or pillow. experienced ride leader will lead each tour; plus detailed tour maps and written directions are provided to every Can I choose my roommate? Definitely – we prefer that cyclist, along with the phone number of the emergency you do. When registering, simply indicate the name of support vehicle (SAG wagon) that will be on call and the person with whom you wish to share a suite. Any patrolling the routes. children attending will be billeted with their parents.
This year, we will offer some Saturday rides from a remote What if I come on my own? If you do not indicate a start location to allow you to explore some of the beautiful suitemate, you will be placed in a suite (two separate roads and towns in the National Capital Region of Canada. bedrooms/one shared washroom) with a participant of the same gender and if possible, of similar age.
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 17
ENTERTAINMENT Can I prepare some of my meals? Like some of the Cyclon accommodations in the past, there is a Cyclon is almost as much a social event as a recreational refrigerator and a microwave oven available to all Cyclon cycling event! The common interests of 200 cyclists and the attendees in each suite. If you wish to prepare your own camaraderie that develops are what help to make Cyclon so meals you will need to bring your own dishes, pots, special and why it has been successful for so many years. eating and cooking utensils. In addition, you will be Friday: There is a reception beginning at 6:00 pm; what responsible for cleaning the kitchen. better way to break the ice, meet up with old friends or Can I change my mind and add on or cancel some of the make some new ones? The reception on Friday evening meals after I arrive at the University of Ottawa? No. The includes pizza, snacks and a cash bar. meals have to be confirmed many weeks before we Saturday & Sunday afternoon: arrive at Cyclon; please ensure that you select the meals Come and join a social after‐ride reception, enjoy light you want when you register. snacks and the camaraderie of other cyclists. What about special dietary needs or allergies? Cyclon Post‐ride stretching classes and massage. has secured the services of a Registered Dietician to Saturday night: Great group dining and/or entertainment ensure that our meals will meet the needs of most choices that are currently under development or you can restrictive diets and taste good too! Please be sure to explore Ottawa on your own; obviously more to come include any special needs when registering. before Cyclon arrives. REGISTRATION
Sunday night: Gala Dinner & Dance at the National Arts Registration is limited to 200 people for Cyclon 2014. Centre, on the stunning Rideau Canal that is a beautiful ten‐ minute walk from the residence – no need to drive or catch How do I register for Cyclon: Beginning in 2014, TBN a shuttle bus! The evening features a sumptuous dinner requires that all event registration be done online using followed by a DJ‐hosted dance so bring your dancing shoes! your credit card or PayPal. However, payment can be made by cheque, but you need to register online, and then mail in your payment. Online registration ensures that a spot is reserved for you immediately. Visit www.tbn.ca/cyclon to register.
Information Night & Social: The Cyclon Information Night & Social gives you the opportunity to talk directly to Cyclon organizers, about the event, and with other participants who have been there! Computers will be on site to help with online registration. A cash bar and light refreshments will be provided.
COST & PACKAGE OPTIONS Date: Thursday, May 1, 2014 Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm Package includes: Cycling tours, two dinners (Friday and Where: Scallywags, 11 St. Clair Avenue West Sunday) and accommodation. (SW corner of Yonge & St. Clair)
Cost: $280 for TBN members and $310 for non‐members, When is the Early Bird deadline? The Early Bird deadline who register on or before May 31, 2014. is Saturday, May 31, 2014. All registrations must be received on or before May 31 to qualify for the Early Bird Other options: saving of $50 per person. Three “all you care to eat” hot and cold breakfasts in the residence cafeteria at $25 but one must take all three. When is the registration deadline? The registration Underground parking at $16 per day. deadline is July 13, 2014. Special needs, such as Additional accommodation at $99 per night, per suite, roommate selection and carpooling assistance will be plus HST. more easily accommodated by registering early.
Lunch: You are on your own for lunch so you will have an I have registered for Cyclon. Is my spot reserved? Your opportunity to enjoy the local dining hot spots or a picnic on spot at Cyclon is reserved when your registration and your chosen ride. payment in full is received (approved credit card/cleared
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 18 cheque). Your bank withdrawal or charge to your credit card PAYMENT statement is your receipt/confirmation. A confirmation How do I pay for Cyclon? email will be sent to you immediately after registering on 1. You can register and pay online using Visa, the TBN website. If you register online, but send your MasterCard or PayPal by visiting www.tbn.ca/cyclon. payment by mail, your confirmation e‐mail will arrive a 2. You can register online and mail a cheque to the week or two after the payment has been received. Please following address; please clearly indicate the names ensure you provide your correct e‐mail address when you of the persons for which payment is being made. register. The e‐mail will contain information and directions. Payment must be made in Canadian funds. Please check your ‘bulk’ or ‘spam’ e‐mail folders in addition Cyclon to your inbox. Last year a number of people received this c/o Toronto Bicycling Network Inc confirmation in this folder, particularly with Rogers or Yahoo 131 Bloor Street West Suite 200 accounts. P O Box 279 How can I register online if I don’t have a computer? If you Toronto ON M5S 1R8 do not have access to a computer, you can attend the 3. You may also pay by credit card or cheque at the Information Night & Social, where we can help you register Information Night & Social on May 1, 2014. online and accept your payment or ask a fellow club Note: For security reasons, do not mail cash payments. member, with a computer, to help you register for Cyclon. For U.S. participants not paying by credit card, please What happens if I want to cancel my reservation? send a traveler's cheque or international money order. Cancellations made in writing prior to July 13 are subject to What is the best way to register for Cyclon? It is best to a $50 cancellation fee. You may sell your package only with register online and pay by credit card or PayPal as this the approval of the Cyclon Directors. No refund of any kind will ensure that a spot is reserved for you immediately; will be made after July 13 – NO EXCEPTIONS! visit www.tbn.ca/cyclon to register. I am not a member ‐ can I get my TBN membership at the same time that I sign up for Cyclon? Yes. You can get your *** Online registration opens April 2014 *** TBN membership and save money at the same time by registering for Cyclon at the member's price; to join TBN For up‐to‐date information prior to Cyclon, visit the visit www.tbn.ca/join. FAQs at www.tbn.ca/cyclon
Le Tour de France 2013
Every fan dreams of seeing their favourite sport at its pre‐ Pyrenees, that offers various cycling trips in France, Italy eminent venue or event. In tennis its Wimbledon; in soccer and Spain with the signature trip taking place during the its cheering for or against Manchester United at Old week in which the TdF reaches the Pyrenees mountain Trafford; in golf, you’ll want to see Tiger swing the club at range, in southern France. During this week, PyrActif Augusta; a baseball fan must witness the Green Monster at guests are provided the opportunity to precede the race, Fenway Park in Boston or take the “L” to Wrigley Field in by about 4‐5 hours, by riding to the start, finish or Chicago and there are no greater hockey shrines than The somewhere along the route, which in the case of the Forum in Montreal or Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto. Pyrenees, is almost always at the top of a major mountain, otherwise referred to as a “col”. This occurs In 2013, I lived the dream of a cyclist by attending the 100th for two or three days and after the tour has passed, Tour de France (TdF). Although I am not a long time cyclist guests continue their adventure by cycling throughout or fan, and with just a passing knowledge of “Le Tour”, I’ve the region and replicating partial stages of years past. come to admire the incredible feats of athleticism per‐ The owner of the lodge arranges all the tours and formed by these mighty cyclists. Drug doping aside, the ensures that guests experience the action, either by ability to ride 150 – 200 km a day for three weeks, up some cycling directly from the lodge or after a shuttle bus ride, of the steepest mountains in the world, is an amazing feat. to a prime location, to begin a Tour‐worthy climb. So I decided two years ago, on my 50th birthday, that I would witness the TdF from the Col du Tourmalet peak i.e. I was part of a group of 15 cycling enthusiasts gathered from the perspective of a recreational cyclist. together for an incredible and challenging week of cycling A fellow cyclist had told me about the PyrActif lodge, in the in the Pyrenees, plus made memories for life.
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Day 1 ‐ Stage 8: We were shuttled to a drop‐off point to ride Finally, I pass under the banner, raise my arms in faux for about 20 relatively flat kilometres as a warm up and victory, stop for photos and relish the moment. Obviously then we began an ascent of 18 km ‐ with an average 7% there are hundreds of other amateurs like me doing the grade and peaking at 14% ‐ up to the summit of Port de same, all sporting a grin from ear to ear. Pailheres. Yes, those numbers are high, but we had learned The summit of a mountain at the TdF hosts an incredible the night before that we would begin our week with a “Hors number of people, including those who arrive in campers, Catégorie” or HC climb! in cars, by bike and by foot. There is festive atmosphere, almost like a music festival between acts, with people sitting on the grass, enjoying picnic lunches, strolling around, munching on cheap food and jockeying for the ideal vantage point in anticipation of what’s to come first i.e. “The Caravan”.
The Caravan is a parade of colourfully decorated promotional vehicles that traverse the route in advance of the race. The vehicles feature youthful volunteers tossing out freebies to the spectators, mostly trinkets and trash such as calendars, coupons, candy, hats and more.
The fans line the road to collect these, almost as a rite of passage with many Tour fans returning year after year to As this was my first experience on a climb of such intensity, I supplement their prize chest. The Caravan rolls through decided to pace myself at an exertion level of about 70‐80%, for an hour or so and then is followed by another pause as I knew I’d need to conserve energy if I had any chance of of an hour while we await the actual racers. Finally, from reaching the summit. As the climb began, the group began one vantage point on the summit, overlooking a series of to splinter, with the stronger riders steadily ascending the switchbacks, we spy the first of the race entourage that mountain and the rest of us struggling our way up. includes official tour vehicles, sponsor vehicles for VIPs, As I was climbing, I marvelled at the beauty of the motorcycles, police and more. landscape, admired the grace of the other cyclists and feasted on the muted applause by a smattering of spectators camped out strategically along the route. Then it hit me: HOLY COW, I AM RIDING IN THE PYRENEES DURING THE TdF!!! I was awash with joy that helped whisk away the pain and fatigue I was starting to feel during this strenuous journey. Finally, after 90 long and vertical minutes, I arrived at a café just shy of the summit, to join my group for a quick break, before ascending the last kilometre to the madness of the summit.
As the summit approaches, the spectator traffic becomes denser, the noise louder and the feeling more magical. Fans begin to recognize the approach of the pros and the
din at the mountaintop grows louder as they start cheering their names. As they approach the summit, near to where we are situated, everyone races to the barricades to get an up‐close view and cheer on the cyclists with “Allez Allez”. The race is approaching the summit of an HC climb, so the pros cross the summit at a moderate speed either one at a time, or in small groups, all eliciting loud vocal cheers. Along comes Quintana, leading the parade of exhausted pros under the summit banner, after an HC climb; Quintana ultimately finished second overall in the Tour.
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Other cyclists summit the col in groups of just a few, to situated in a tiny town nestled deep in the Pyrenees. The larger groups of 10‐15 and 25 minutes later, the last of the lodge had been a cycling tour business for many years pros pass through – including some of the top sprinters before the current husband and wife proprietors – Chris hoping to avoid the Broom Wagon i.e. those disqualified and Helen ‐ acquired the property about six years earlier. because they finished too far behind the victor of the day. Chris and Helen operate the business throughout the And just like that, it’s over! People hop on their bikes, get in summer as essentially a B&B for cyclists. They offer a full their cars and campers, and begin the long trek back down and scrumptious dinner all but two evenings, and handle the mountain they ascended hours before. The experienced all household duties required of any B&B. Plus, they offer cyclists in our group warn us about the congested roads on the requisite guided cycling tours, acting as both tour the descent, so we wait a few minutes before departing. guide and SAG all in one. Chris and Helen try to ride with Going downhill, we passed a number of cars, campers, the guests when they can, but the demands of hosting hikers and slower cyclists. The faster cyclists take over the 12‐20 cyclists often preclude them from accompanying opposite lane to descend, as the road is still closed so there their guests. On certain days, Chris and a part‐time is no fear of oncoming traffic. Some of the cyclists descend employee provide SAG support on the most difficult at break‐neck speeds, and so I hug the inside of the lane and climbs. Driving up, and down a mountain, to check on carefully weave my way down a series of switchbacks PyrActif guests that might be as much as an hour apart through relatively heavy traffic. on major ascents requires great perseverance and an excellent sense of timing. There was Chris with re‐fills of The descent was exhilarating yet frightening for the many water and energy bars whenever we needed it…..we felt reasons: The other cyclists, both fast and slow; hikers; cars, like pros supported by our own team cars! vans, campers and busses; the winding roads; the loose gravel in spots kicking up pebbles under our feet; the length of the descent, about 18km; the strain on the hands; the worry about who is in front or behind me. Eyes must be focused at all times ahead of you no sightseeing during this 30 minute descent.
And so the day ended. This was like nothing I experienced before, and I was on an emotional high. Yes, I cycled in the Pyrenees, on the same roads as the pros, and I saw them pass before my eyes! And, I climbed for 20km, just like the pros, and passed under the banner, just like the pros. I truly did not know if I could accomplish such a rigorous journey, and so my sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. Excitement gave way to fatigue and so we had a chance to nap or view the countryside during the long three‐hour shuttle‐bus journey back to the PyrActif lodge. Read more about the trip, including the excitement around Stage 9 of the TdF, the challenge of climbing other legendary cols like the brutal climb of Col de Port de Bales and reaching the peak of the legendary Col du Tourmalet at www.bit.do/TDF2013.
This has to be one of the most thrilling experiences any cyclist … or rather make that any sporting enthusiast can undertake. I highly recommend this trip and would be happy to talk with any of my fellow TBN’ers about it and then persuade you to book your trip for 2014 or 2015 right away. It truly is an adventure every cyclist should undertake at least once in his or her lifetime.
We arrived late in the evening at PyrActif headquarters, which is an absolutely charming 19th century farmhouse Ed Weiss
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 21 Fall City Walks & Unofficial Winter Walks
From October 20 to December 14, there were nine City the official City Walks, in that they start and end at a Walks. If you are unfamiliar with them, they typically start subway station, go for about 10 km, with coffee and meal at or near a subway station, cover about 10 km, with one stops. They differ in that they are not planned very far in or more coffee breaks in the middle. The walks often end advance and no maps are provided. They often have a at a restaurant, close to a subway station, or with easy bus topical, architectural, historical, or artistic theme, such as or streetcar access to the subway. Maps are provided, so E. J. Lennox buildings, Sorel Etrog sculptures, the walkers can go faster or slower than the main group. underground PATH system, William McElcheran sculptures, Toronto laneways, and especially this year, avoiding icy sidewalks.
Most walks were on traditional routes that have been used for many years, such as Don Valley/Taylor Creek, Mid‐ Humber, Taddle Creek, Mark’s Beeches Meander and The walks end once the weather gets good enough for Laugh Like Crazy. Some newer walks were included, such cycling, but will begin again in the fall, around mid‐ as the West End Trail Meander, led by Bill Samuel, and the October. We will probably also get together, as we have Christmas Lights Walk led by Marc Smith. Also, the first for the last few years, for the Toronto Doors Open annual Mark Brousseau Memorial Walk was held that was weekend, May 24 or 25. well attended by 33 TBN members and other friends of Mark. Unfortunately, we were unable to get a city permit for our annual bonfire walk and pot‐luck lunch this year, but went for an enjoyable walk anyway.
I am happy to carry on the TBN City Walk program, established by Mark Brousseau and Howard Chan, and look forward to starting another season in the fall.
Since January 5, despite the unusually cold weather, we John Burdett have run a dozen “unofficial” walks. They are similar to City Walk Coordinator
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Gran Turismo the TBN way
Ever thought of starting your European bike adventure That fee can vary, strangely enough, depending on the from your front door, riding to Pearson airport, and mood of the airline staff. A word of warning — get to checking your bike in when you get there? Pearson in plenty of time to check in with your unusually sized luggage. There was one time when the bikes did not No cars, no taxis, no parking hassles and no waiting around arrive at the same time as the passengers, which meant for an airport bus. waiting around in Frankfurt until they finally made it there.
And when you get to Europe — usually landing at Why Europe? Frankfurt’s efficient and streamlined airport — you tear Europe has an extensive network of long, car‐free bicycle the bike out of its sturdy plastic bag, pump up the tires and routes — you can ride hundreds of kilometres without start to roll, perhaps with a train trip or two to push you getting involved with traffic that’s moving faster than 50 along your way. The train station is located right km/h. “It’s mind boggling,” Terry says. underneath Frankfurt airport, so there are destinations aplenty to choose from. The lure: mile after mile of well‐ What sort of distances do you do each day, and where do signed, car‐free bicycle trails, offering history, views and you stay? food. Daily averages are usually around 60 – 70 km a day, although a big mountain pass can mean it takes a day to go If it sounds impossible, take a leaf from the playbook of 30 steep kilometres, and there are times when Terry rides TBN Board Member Terry Walsh, who has honed the 100 – 130 km if he needs to make up time along the route. travel‐by‐bike routine into a fine art in a decade of He books most of his hotels ahead of time, to be sure of European trips. During that time, he’s travelled along some not getting caught out by things like wine festivals, where of Europe’s most storied bicycle routes. Highlights include accommodation may be booked up solid. There are lots of riding up (and over) the Gotthard Pass, a partly cobbled wine festivals in Europe. road that snakes its way up to 2,108 metres in central Switzerland, with stunning views and alarming switchback Where do the routes take you? bends. A lot of the trails follow Europe’s big rivers — the Mosel, or the Rhine for example. You ride from town to town, and Terry spoke to us about some of his trips and why and how perhaps leave the trail for a bit to visit a castle or another he does them. Here’s a summary of some of the things we tourist sight. The Gotthard trip was the most recent spoke about. adventure. The trip over the pass itself is 26 km, with well over 1,000 maters of climbing, first to the mountain resort How many years have been doing these trips, and where of Andermatt, and then over the pass itself. (Car traffic have you been? mostly takes a tunnel nowadays.) Then there was a 13 km, Terry’s taken several trips in a number of different thousand metre descent to the town of Airolo. But it’s countries — not quite one trip a year. He usually starts in switchbacks and cobblestones. No breaking speed records Germany, but has also visited Denmark, Sweden, on this one. Luxembourg and Switzerland, plus a few other countries along the way. The most recent adventure included that Any advice for newbies wanting to follow your example? struggle up Gotthard Pass, which the web site Get the best maps you can find — Germany’s ADFC cycling www.cycling‐challenge.com describes as “truly club has really good ones for all the different parts of cobblestone heaven.” Germany. And take plenty of Ziploc bags. Even if your panniers say they are waterproof, they might not be, and How does it work? you don’t want everything to get wet if it’s raining and you You ride to Pearson Airport, with everything you will need need to find some item out from the very bottom of your on tour loaded into your panniers. (Don’t forget the rain pannier. gear). At Pearson, you take the panniers off, turn the handlebars and remove the pedals and then put the bikes Written by Janet Guttsman after interviewing Terry Walsh inside heavy‐duty plastic bags supplied by the airline. Then you pay the extra luggage fee and check in for the plane. More information: Contact Terry on [email protected]
Quick Release | Mar‐14 to May‐14 | Page 23 Easy Roller David Middleton [email protected]
Leisure Wheeler Jamie Hauyon [email protected] Tourist/Sportif Joey Schwartz [email protected] Country Cruise/Sat Shorts Barry Pinsky & Rowena Maclure [email protected] Tuesday Ravine David Peebles [email protected] Wednesday Wheelie Ron Wilson & Dave Mader [email protected] Wednesday Night Terry Walsh [email protected] Friday Night Mike Gurski [email protected] Saturday Morning Patsy Cook & Mick O’Meara [email protected] City Walks John Burdett [email protected] Hiking Vacant (previously Ed Herage) [email protected] Ice Skating Fred Lee [email protected]
Coordinators Skiing/Snowshoeing Terry Walsh [email protected]
Spinning Kathleen Harford [email protected]
Ride Classifications Common Start Locations
Boardwalk Place (previously Boardwalk Pub): The parking lot is Leisure Wheeler: Distances of 20 ‐ 60 km, at speeds of 15 ‐ 17 located at Northern Dancer Boulevard and Lake Shore Boulevard km/h for a leisurely pace. Designed as a series of entry level East. Paid parking is available near Boardwalk Place, however, rides for novices, seniors and riders returning after a long parking on Coxwell Avenue is free. absence. Rides start at 10 am on Sunday and 10:30 am on Bridgepoint Health: Meet in the park behind Bridgepoint Health, at Tuesday. the corner of Broadview Avenue and Langley Avenue. Parking is on Suggested programs: Sunday Leisure Wheeler and Tuesday Broadview Avenue. Ravine. Edwards Gardens: The parking lot is located on the south west
corner of Lawrence Avenue and Leslie Street. Easy Roller: Distances of 30 ‐ 60 km, at speeds of 18 ‐ 22 Etienne Brulé Park: The parking lot is located at the junction of Old km/h for a relaxed pace. Routes are often on quiet streets Mill Road and Old Mill Drive i.e. around the corner and down the hill and bike paths in the city and surrounding areas. Rides start from the Old Mill subway station. at 10 am. Finch Subway: The Park ‘n’ Ride is located on the north west corner Suggested programs: Wednesday Night, Friday Night, of Yonge Street and Hendon Avenue, one block north of Finch Saturday Morning and Sunday Easy Roller. Avenue.
Grenadier Cafe, High Park: Follow the signs south from the Tourist: Rides are for experienced cyclists, utilizing both intersection of High Park Avenue and Bloor Street West. urban and rural routes at faster paces of 23 ‐ 28 km/h and Kennedy Subway: Beside the elevator on the west side of the longer distances of 60 ‐ 215 km. On shorter rides of 60 ‐ 70 station, on Transway Crescent. km, a system of ride leader and organized formal regrouping Kipling Subway: The north lot of the Park ‘n’ Ride is located on will be attempted to keep the group together. On longer Subway Crescent, south of Dundas Street West and west of Kipling; rides, grouping and regrouping is informal and riders are look for the signs. expected to download and preview the ride maps/cue sheets McCowan Subway: The south parking lot next to FreshCo on before a ride. Riders are expected to stay in a group and McCowan Road, north of Ellesmere Road. regroup at traffic lights before they hit the open road. Once Queen’s Park: Near the King Edward statue at the north end of the on the open road, everyone is essentially on their own, at park, just north of Wellesley Street. their own pace, and self‐sufficient. Sportif riders do the same Shoppers World: Located on Danforth Avenue, at Victoria Park rides as Tourists, but at the faster 29 ‐ 35 km/h pace. Avenue, one block south of the Park ‘n’ Ride for the Victoria Park Suggested programs: Wednesday Wheelie, Saturday Cruising Subway, in front of Coffee Time Donuts. Shorts, Sunday Tourist/Sportif and Sunday Country Cruise. Taddle Creek Park: One block north of the Bedford exit of the St.
George subway station.
Toronto Bicycling Network Inc 131 Bloor Street West Suite 200 P O Box 279 Toronto ON M5S 1R8
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