Fall Colour Fondo welcomed cyclists to the County

A new name and new look brought close to 150 cyclists to southern parts of Prince Edward County Sunday.

The Picton Kiwanis Club hosted its 14th annual Fall Colour Fondo, Sunday, welcoming riders at the Waupoos Estates Winery. Formerly known as the Colour Cribbage Ride, the event changed its name, start location and routes in a bid to attract more riders. The Italian word ‘fondo’ roughly translates to ‘Big Ride’.

Cyclists started and finished at the winery following one of three routes – a 25K Piccolo Fondo, 50K Medio Fondo or the 100K Gran Fondo.

The ride is not a race; however, serious riders complete the 100 km ride in just a little over three hours. Other riders may take about six hours to do the 50K ride.

Cyclists came from the County, Kingston, Ottawa, Toronto, Peterborough and beyond. Sweep vehicles bring up the rear of the pack to ensure no rider is left behind. Volunteer marshals were stationed at important junctions and cyclists also had refreshment stops along each route.

Lunch, highlighted by the Waupoos Winery’s pizza started at noon when the first riders began returning. Each participant also received a voucher toward their choice of County produce on display from Waupoos Winery, Clafeld Cider and Barley Days Brewery.

“We are thrilled to be hosting this event and helping to bring together community vendors and riders to experience gorgeous Prince Edward County,” said Kathy Conners, Weddings and Special Events Manager, Waupoos Estates Winery and Restaurant.

Riders paid $50, ($5 discount for early registration) and students were invited to join in for $30.

“The money raised from this event helps support the numerous Kiwanis Club sponsorship activities such as PECI scholarships, Air Cadets, Terrific Kids, the Picton Splash Pad and many more community projects that help the children of Prince Edward County and the world,” said Linda Wilson, club president. “Support of this fund raising event is an investment in the children of the County.”