After a spell of never ending spring weather, the anticipation of a major cycling event at the stunning Christie Lake Conservation Area (CLCA), was more than enough to get cyclists excited. The staff of MEC-Burlington and the volunteers from Hamilton Cycling Club (HCC) did not disappoint with MEC Bikefest! We were treated to some well executed programming that included a morning trail build, guided rides, clinics, yoga, and even a track-stand contest!
This was also a day of epic celebrations, with the HCC, Hamilton Conservation and the Trillium Foundation holding a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the CLCA trails that they have been so diligently constructing over the past few years.
Photo courtesy of: Sunny Kaura
The HCC also showcased all of the volunteer hours accumulated so far on the trail network at Christie Lake. The HCC President presented a cheque to the Hamilton Conservation Authority (who runs the CLCA) with the equivalent monetary value, and wow hard work really pays off in dividends!!
Photo courtesy of: Sunny Kaura
Another milestone of HCC’s hard work at CLCA, was the official unveiling of their stunning new trailhead sign and map!
This was a particularly important event for IMBA Canada as well. With our current focus on driving membership to improve our current capacity challenges, Café Domestique, along with support from Canadian Cyclist, humbled us with a fundraising donation of $350! So very, very appreciated and we would not be able to survive without such great industry support!!!
Photo courtesy of: Sunny Kaura
I had a great time, and look forward to attending the event again next year! Special thanks to the MEC Staff (Annika and Anita), and GORBA (Alex and Melissa) for all of your help and yes, I will be defending my track-stand title in 2014!