Cyclists gear up for this weekend’s Kawartha Lakes Classic to support local shelter

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Cyclists are set to roll through Kawartha Lakes, on Saturday, August 23rd, when the 22nd annual Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour returns, with a new starting point in Oakwood. The long-running ride combines scenic routes with community spirit, all in support of Lindsay’s homeless shelter.

This year’s event kicks off in Oakwood, at the Oakwood Lions Mariposa Community Hall, at 1008 Eldon Road. Riders can choose from five distances: a 20-kilometre option, with road or trail choices; 50 kilometres; a 70-kilometre gravel route; 100 kilometres; or a full 160 kilometres. Start times will be staggered, between 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Organized by the Kawartha Cycling Club, in partnership with A Place Called Home (APCH), and sponsored by Boston Pizza Lindsay, the ride raises funds to support emergency shelter services in Kawartha Lakes and the County of Haliburton.

According to, APCH’s community engagement coordinator, Jen Lopinski, momentum is building heading into event weekend.“We’re thrilled with the response so far,” she said. “We have more than 120 riders signed up, and we’re confident we’ll get close to 200, by the time the starting bell rings. Our cyclists are not only coming out to ride but also to make a difference.”

Ms. Lopinski added, the organization is hoping to surpass last year’s total of $40,000 raised. “This year, our goal is to top $50,000 which will go directly toward helping people in our community, who are in the middle of a housing crisis,” she explained. “Every dollar raised makes it possible for us to keep our shelter doors open and provide the wraparound supports people need.”

Cyclist Brian McKenzie, who has taken part in the Kawartha Lakes Classic several times, said, it’s an event he looks forward to every summer. “The routes are always well organized and challenging, in the best way,” he said. “But what really makes it special is knowing you’re riding for a cause [which] impacts local families. It feels great to be part of something [which] brings the community together.”

Advance registration is $100, until event day, when the fee rises to $120. Students can register for $50 and youth for $15. In-person registration will also be available on site, at the Oakwood Lions Mariposa Community Hall.

To make the event part of a full weekend, riders can take advantage of a combo package, encompassing 10 percent off accommodations at the Days Inn & Suites, in Lindsay, along with two free tickets to a performance at the Grove Theatre, in Fenelon Falls.

Participants, who fund raise in addition to registering, will receive custom cycling socks and NiteRider bike lights.

When speaking with The Standard, organizers emphasized, the long-running event is designed for both seasoned cyclists and recreational riders.

The day will feature music by Westerby Entertainment, to kick things off, followed by a post-ride lunch with pizza and Caesar salad, from Boston Pizza Lindsay and dessert from Kawartha Wholesale Bakery. The Oakwood & District Lions Club will also host a cash bar, with proceeds benefiting APCH.

APCH provides emergency shelter services, to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and also operates a drop-in centre, offering showers, laundry, meals, and housing support services.

For more information or to register, visit kawarthaclassic.com or email kawarthaclassic@apch.ca.