GUELPH – The 11th annual Tour de Guelph, presented by Label Design Ltd. and Scotiabank welcomed a record-breaking 780 riders, according to officials.
While the event continues to welcome donations to reach its $200,000 fundraising goal, they are already celebrating a record-breaking year with an estimated $190,000 net revenue.
Proceeds support Guelph General Hospital and numerous local charitable programs through the Rotary Clubs of Guelph South and Guelph Trillium.
“The day was a buzz with positive energy and a strong feeling of community,” said Tour de Guelph co-chair and Guelph rotarian Clarence Haverson. “Our goal is to create an inclusive cycling event that welcomes our diverse community of all ages and cycling ability.”
“It was so great to welcome both new and returning riders who came together to share in this fun but also very impactful cycling event,” she added.
All three of Tour de Guelph’s organizing partners, The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital, Rotary Club of Guelph South and Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium extend their thanks to all who contributed to the event’s success.
In addition to the 780 riders, more than 2,000 people supported their fundraising with donations.
Over 100 volunteers helped plan the event and helped on the day of the event.
Dozens of local businesses contributed through sponsorship, as vendors, or by contributing in-kind service and product.
The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital’s portion of the proceeds will help the hospital expand their inventory of colonscopes so they can keep pace with important, and often life-saving, screening exams and medical procedures.
President and CEO at Guelph General Hospital Mark Walton and CEO of The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital Julie Byczynski, thanked riders as they gathered at the starting line.
“On behalf of the entire team at GGH, I’d like to thank each rider, volunteer, sponsor, donor and family member who came together to support this event on Sunday,” said Walton.
“Since all equipment used in the care of patients is funded by donations, the proceeds from events like Tour de Guelph is essential to enabling our healthcare team to provide exemplary and equitable care for our community.”
In addition to supporting Guelph General, a portion of the proceeds support dozens of local charitable organizations and programs through the Rotary Clubs of Guelph South and Guelph Trillium.
Many local groups aimed at youth development, family support, and community building will be supported.
Tour de Guelph takes place at the University of Guelph campus and across the city and county.
All ages and abilities are welcome and encouraged to register, fundraise and enjoy a bike ride together.
Donations being accepted to support the 11th annual Tour de Guelph closed on July 3rd.
The 12th annual Tour de Guelph is set for June 22, 2025.
Full event details can be found on the Tour de Guelph website at www.tourdeguelph.ca.
