Early morning on July 19th, a group of cyclists gathered in Winnipeg to begin their trek across the southeast, ending up East of Richer at the Eastman ATV Staging area.
The 96km ride took cyclists through Prairie Grove, the Center of Canada, St. Anne, and Richer.
As the sun rose, the cyclists got to experience the history of Canada’s oldest trail, stopping in the communities for snacks and sights.
Prepared for the trail
Any bumps in the road were quickly addressed, and all riders were able to finish the ride. The trek was prepared for almost any circumstance with the help of La Bikequerie mechanics and a Victory Training medic.
Kyle Waczko, event organizer, says he tried to plan for every possibility.
“My wife Rebecca and I tried to think of absolutely everything for this ride. Making sure the cyclists were taken care of every pedal of the way”.
Riding for a reason
This fundraising trek raised money for the Dawson Trail Museum. Volunteers from the organization are constantly checking the artwork and markers along the trail for damage or vandalism, and the funds raised here will help with upkeep or future upgrades.
“We will be somewhere in the $8,000 to $10,000 mark with this event. They will use this money to make sure this history along the Dawson is there for years to come and never forgotten,” says Waczko.
The journey and the community
As the ride ended, cyclists were met by cold drinks, pizza and family along with Dawson Trek cake.
“You ride a bike 96kms, on gravel sections, pavement...from newbies to veterans, 16 to 80 year-olds, and everyone has big smiles on their faces!”
Waczko ended the event by saying, “They say there is lost gold along this Dawson Trail. Many say it was right around this area. If you look down at the side of your jersey, you will see a piece of that gold!”
Riders then each found a gold medal at their side. Waczko then told them the real gold was the community coming together to learn about and experience the history of Dawson Trek.
Riders are looking forward to next year, and organizers are celebrating their success before planning the next ride.
