Bluewater International Granfondo returns to support Local Palliative Care
The Bluewater International Granfondo cycling event returns for its 8th edition on August 4th 2024 along the shores of Lake Huron, starting and finishing in Sarnia’s beautiful Mike Weir Park
About Bluewater International Granfondo
The Bluewater International Granfondo is an annual cycling fundraiser held in Sarnia, Ontario. Now in its 8th year, the Granfondo has raised over $400,000 in support of Bluewater Palliative Care Retreat, St. Joseph’s Hospice, Bluewater Health’s Palliative Care and BIG Brothers BIG Sisters.
For more information, visit http://bigf.ca
Photo: Riders at the start of the 30k route
2024 Registration Now Open
Register now to secure an entry for the 8th edition taking place August 4th, 2024. 1,200 participants are expected, and the ride will sell out in advance, like all previous six editions! Places are limited. There are four routes to choose from all of which will take in some outstanding views of Lambton County with the finish for all routes being along the stunning shores of Lake Huron.and ending in Mike Weir Park. The four routes are 30k, (family) 50k, 100k, and 150k each with their own start time specifically designed to avoid mass start anxiety and allow riders of all routes to finish within a reasonable time of each other.
B.I.G. utilizes timed sections which is a format that prevents chaotic starts but still allows competitive juices to flow. This format allows all riders to receive a competition time for the timed sections (no overall time will be given) while also being able to take your time in between timed sections and regroup with friends upon completion of the timed sections.
Photo: Riders during a timed section on the 150k route
Whether you are looking to experience the enjoyment of riding on quite country roads or through thriving fruit orchards or challenge yourself on the rolling hills of Arkona you will find it all in this area of outstanding natural beauty.
Photo: Kathy Johnson and Ken MacAlpine from the organizing committee check riders at the start of the 100K
In 2023 most Canadian provinces were represented in addition to a number of States and Europe with some riders coming from as far away as Uganda making BIG a truly international event.
Photo: Some riders coming from as far away as Uganda making BIG a truly international event!
Early bird registration is $120 for the 150 km route, $110 for the 100km route, and $90 for the 50km route and $70 for the family’s ride - up until December 31st 2023.
Registration includes a special event jersey made by Giordana, Swag Bag, Well Marked Route, four food and drinks along the route and at the finish, on-route support, timed sections, and a finisher's medal. Funds raised through registration and donations will be presented to the beneficiary organizations at the post-event celebrations.
To avoid disappointment, register early before prices increase!
For more information, please visit: http://bigf.ca or click the button below to register.
The 2024 Bluewater International Granfondo (B.I.G) will continue to support Bluewater Palliative Care Retreat, St. Joseph’s Hospice and Bluewater Health’s Palliative Care, which provide compassionate end-of-life care for residents of Sarnia-Lambton.
“We are thrilled to once again host the Bluewater International Granfondo and support the meaningful work of Bluewater Palliative Care Retreat, St. Joseph’s Hospice and Bluewater Health’s Palliative Care,” said Ken MacAlpine, co-founder of the Bluewater International Granfondo. “These organizations provide an invaluable service to our community, and the funds raised this year will help ensure residents continue to have access to compassionate end-of-life care. “
B.I.G. is proud to continue to host the Ontario First Responder Road Cycling Championships (Fire - Police - EMS) (OFRRCC). Their ride consists of B.I.G.’s 100km route with three timed sections which can be raced to determine the fastest male and female who will be crowned champion. OFRRCC is an excellent complement to Sunday’s B.I.G. making Sarnia a special Canadian cycling weekend destination for both riders and fans.
Photo: The event features live entertainment
In addition to the cycling routes, the event features live entertainment, food from local vendors, a Cowbell Beer garden and a cycling expo. Riders can cool off with a refreshing swim in Lake Huron prior to relaxing to a live band while enjoying a well-deserved beer or soft drink along with some very tasty food.
Photo: The event features Food from local vendors, a Cowbell Beer garden and a cycling expo
The Bluewater International Gran Fondo was ranked #1 in Ontario and #2 in Canada by Gran Fondo Guide. The 8th Bluewater International Granfondo will be held on August 4th, 2024 starting in Mike Weir Park, Sarnia.
For those wanting to get fit, training rides take place 12 weeks prior to B.I.G. training/educational rides will be held on Monday and Wednesday evenings. The emphasis on Monday is assisting newer riders and Wednesday being for more advanced riders. Due to their popularity registration will be limited to 240 participants. Each participant receives a sponsored T shirt promoting the rides.
Photo: The Bluewater International Gran Fondo was ranked #1 in Ontario and #2 in Canada by Gran Fondo Guide
Back again due to overwhelming success, the B.I.G. Slow Roll will be held during BIG bike week and is a, free, community 10km bike ride designed for all ages and is dedicated to contributing to the growth of bicycle culture in the Sarnia Lambton area. The goal is to further cycling not only as a health initiative, but also to help enhance Sarnia’s image as a cycling community.
Photo: The B.I.G. Slow Roll will be held during BIG bike week and is a, free, community 10km bike ride
BIG would not be possible without the tireless work of our 14 member organizing committee 9 of which are shown below.
Photo: BIG would not be possible without the tireless work of our organizing committee
