DUNNVILLE—“It’s been a good decade,” Attila Elek, organizer of the Dunnville Grand Tour, told The Press the day after the 10th installment of the annual event wrapped up.
He estimated there were around 600 cyclists who came to town to participate in the event, which ran over two days, August 17 and 18, and had routes that were 25, 50, 75, 100 and 160 kilometres long.
While some who are newer to the sport of cycling might find the prospect of the longer rides daunting, Elek said it’s both a recreational ride and an easy one. That’s not to say there’s nothing for experts, though.
“I’m a rider myself, so I tried to organize something I would like to ride,” he said.
Elek has clearly done a good job of it, because the ride has had international visitors over the years, including from the United States and Chile.
He said the scenery and location have been cited as draws for riders; also, “they say it’s a very well-organized event.”
Besides bringing people into Haldimand County and thus helping to promote tourism and spur the local economy, Elek said the ride is also an effective vehicle to encourage local residents to explore their own backyard.
“It’s a better way to experience the town, that’s for sure,” he said. “Riding a bike is totally different; you see everything. When you’re driving, everything moves quickly; when you’re riding a bike, time slows down.”
The riders have also been helping the community when they participate, because each year, the tour has used part of its proceeds to give a donation to True Experience.
Rhonda Geyer, Executive Director of True Experience, said the tour “has been an intricate part of True Experience for years. The support we have receive has been nothing short of incredible! I would like to give a huge ‘thank you’ to Attila and Christine Elek, the Dunnville Grand Tour, and all the participants for their generosity and kindness over the last 10 years. Together we do great things!”
Elek reflected on the tour over the years, noting that it’s had its challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and inclement weather – this year, the forecast was calling for thunderstorms and even tornadoes at one point, which did deter some riders.
Despite those challenges, “It’s definitely a milestone for me; I look forward to another ten years,” Elek said. “I hope to see everyone next year in the third weekend of August.”
