Back by popular demand, The Voyageur 200 makes its return on September 7 to Nipissing District’s rugged gravel backroads and remote wilderness trails.
The event last year attracted 41 cyclists from across the province to participate in the inaugural gravel bike race and raised $2,000 for the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation.
"With the first year a resounding success, the organizers are aiming high hoping to attract over 150 riders to this year’s event with a set fundraising goal of $6,000," says organizer Jeff Miller.
See: Nipissing area the 'perfect venue' for an epic gravel bike race
Miller. a local cyclist and stroke survivor, has partnered with Discovery Routes and a community of volunteers eager to see the ride grow.
Its mission in supporting the NBRHCF is to raise awareness around a heart and stroke disorder called Aphasia through a love of bikes and endurance sports.
"Teaming up with Discovery Routes is a great way to showcase the incredible network of trails across the region, help grow the community of riders, and encourage new investments in trails," says Miller.
The Voyageur 200 will have three different length courses on the roster: 60, 100 and an epic 200 km race starting in Corbeil and following a series of backroads and trails circumventing Trout Lake and the Mattawa River system through North Bay, Mattawa, Calvin and Bonfield.
Riders will also be welcome to join a shorter pre-ride on September 6 to warm up for the main event. Race details including registration, technical requirements and sponsorship opportunities are outlined on the race website on Facebook @thevoyageur200 and Instagram @the.voyageur200.
Volunteers are needed for the day of the race and can sign up on the website.
