The Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation is proud to announce that Festivals and Events Ontario have awarded their annual cycling fundraising event – The Gran Fondo Lake Huron, presented by Bruce Power & Suppliers the distinction of being one of the Top 100 Events in Ontario. The third weekend of every August the streets and country side roads are filled with nearly 1,000 cyclists taking part in this family friendly fundraiser that supports quality healthcare in our communities.
In the few short years since its inception, this community cycling event has raised over $1.3 million for healthcare in our rural area. In addition to the main goal of raising funds for the hospitals, the event also gets the community active through cycling and volunteering and provides positive economic impact for local businesses.
“The Town of Saugeen Shores is thrilled that FEO has recognized the Gran Fondo Lake Huron as a Top 100 event in the Province,” says Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “Not only is the Gran Fondo a marquee fundraiser for our local healthcare system, it also firmly reinforces our status as a regional recreational hub. On behalf of Council, I want to congratulate Executive Director Tracy Murray, the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation Staff & Board and their entire Gran Fondo team of volunteers for their achievement.”
The event has raised funds over the last few summers to help support programs and equipment purchases including the CT scanner in Southampton, mental health programming, crash carts and ventilators.
“Bruce Power and our Supplier Partners are proud to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Gran Fondo Lake Huron, which deserves this recognition as a premiere event in Bruce County and across Ontario,” said Mike Rencheck, Bruce Power’s President and CEO. “The Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation and numerous community volunteers have worked tirelessly over the years to organize such a great event, which raises much-needed funds for our local hospitals, bettering our communities in the process.”
Gran Fondo Lake Huron participants, ranging in age from 2 to 83, not only come from all areas in Grey, Bruce and Huron Counties but from right across the Province and beyond. A large number of returning riders come from larger cities including Ottawa, Barrie, Toronto, London, and some as far away as the U.S and B.C. Many of the riders also bring friends and family with them, often times extending their stay in Saugeen Shores for an additional two to five days. Participants are not only helping to support the Hospital Foundation but with their stay they support local businesses when dining, shopping and booking accommodations.
“Brightshores Health System has long served both local residents and extended care to seasonal visitors. With over 100,000 patient visits annually, we recognize the vital role our health system plays in the well-being of our communities. We are immensely proud to see the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation receive this award. This accolade not only speaks volumes about the dedication and enthusiasm of our community members, the Foundation team and its volunteers, but also highlights the incredible potential for our region to attract individuals from all corners of Ontario, and registration for this year’s ride is now open,” says Ann Ford, CEO Brightshores Health System.
Gran fondo video: https://vimeo.com/848053203?share=copy
To volunteer, register or donate visit www.granfondolakehuron.ca. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tracy Murray at 226-930-1114 or tmurray@brightshores.ca.
