A Grand cycling opportunity

It is surprising how many people in Waterloo Region under-value the Grand River.

I have heard people refer rather mockingly to "the mighty" Grand, or complain about the inconvenience it poses in getting around the region.

But the 280-kilometre-long Grand River is a grand river. It's the backdrop for cultural events, a corridor for wildlife, a spot for fishing, photography, walking and watercraft, and a major water source in a watershed that is home to one million people. Oh, and it features some great cycling trails.

The All Nations Grand River Water Walk is an annual event that celebrates the practical and spiritual role of the river in our lives. 

This year, Philip Martin, founder of Cycling Into the Future, is sponsoring Water Cycle, a fundraising bicycle ride to support the Water Walk. Because the protocols established by the First Nations organizers of the Water Walk preclude cyclists from accompanying the Water Walk directly, this event was created to show support for the river and the walkers.

Water Cycle will be held Thursday, Aug. 30 at 6 p.m. in Kitchener. The opening ceremonies will be on the Walter Bean Grand River Trail behind the Tim Horton's near Lancaster and Bridge streets. Riders are asked to bring a donation to help provide food and lodgings for the water walkers. 

The ride will be along the Grand River, through Bingeman Park to the J.A. Pollock Family Trailway, with the closing ceremonies to he held at the canoe launch near the Victoria Street bridge. Martin advises to be prepared for some hilly sections on the trail.

To register, contact Philip Martin at 226-789-8615 or by email to cyclingintothefuture@gmail.com 

Comments

[Paul]

Also the backdrop for Homer Watson landscapes if I recall correctly.