The annual Bellwether Bike Ride is gearing up for its fifth edition, and organizers are looking for a few more cyclists to join the cause. This two-day ride will help raise vital funds for the Salvation Army Food Bank in Brantford.
The event, which spans the scenic Guelph-to-Goderich rail trail, is set to take place on August 23 and 24. The goal is to raise money for a new refrigerated van to replace the Salvation Army’s aging vehicle. The new van is expected to cost between $80,000 and $100,000, and with $47,700 already raised over the past four years, organizers are hoping for a big push this year to meet the target.
Dale Hall, a financial adviser at Bellwether Family Wealth and the event’s founder, recalled the first ride in 2020, when pandemic restrictions forced him to ride solo. Since then, the event has grown each year, with participants raising thousands to support the Salvation Army’s mission.
“We’ve had four rides over the past five years,” Hall explained, “and we’re hoping to add two or three more riders this year to make the ride even more successful.”
The ride will cover approximately 350 kilometers over two days, using mostly rural roads and trails to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders. Participants will maintain an average pace of 25 to 30 km/h, with several stops for hydration and food along the way. Hall emphasized that the event is designed to be a rewarding experience, with a small group of cyclists ensuring that everyone gets the attention and support they need.
In previous years, the ride has seen different routes and raised significant amounts for the cause. Last year, five riders completed a 250-kilometer loop to Niagara Falls, raising $24,625. This year, the focus is on providing ample support for the riders, with dedicated teams to assist with food and hydration.
Cyclists are encouraged to begin their training with twice-monthly preparatory rides starting in April, followed by longer 100-kilometer rides over the summer. Each participant is asked to raise a minimum of $3,000 through a personalized fundraising page.
“We make sure every rider has the resources and training they need to succeed,” Hall said. “We want everyone to enjoy the ride and contribute to this important cause.”
With more cyclists needed to meet this year’s fundraising goal, Hall hopes that the community will step up and help make the ride a success once again.
