Cycling at Le Tour de Terra Cotta

On Aug. 2, cycling enthusiasts from across the entire province and beyond, from serious racers to beginners, will descend upon the village of Terra Cotta in Caledon, to participate in the annual one-day Le Tour de Terra Cotta bike race and cycling events.

     The multi-event classic starts at 7 a.m. The signature event, Le Tour de Terra Cotta Classic, a 108-km course completed at speeds of over 45 km/h begins at 11 a.m. Prior to this, Le Tour de Terra Cotta Kids, a great way to introduce children aged eight to 16 to the fun and health benefits of cycling, will take place. A third event, Le Tour de Terra Cotta Adult Short Course, is a 27-km race designed for new riders, tri-athletes in training or those who prefer a shorter course.

     Held in the scenic hills of the Niagara Escarpment, this event continues to gain popularity as the number of cyclist and spectators continues to grow each year. 2010 expects to see up to 600 participants. While the majority of participants come from the Golden Horseshoe area, riders from across Canada and the United States have attended; Le Tour de Terra Cotta has even welcomed cyclists from Italy.

     “Le Tour de Terra Cotta is fast becoming an elite event that attracts the best teams in Ontario to race the challenging and scenic Caledon hills. The warm support of the residents creates a fun festival atmosphere, great for families, spectators and riders,” says Amy Moore, former pro cyclist and cycling coach.

     The nine-km course, with full road closure, is sanctioned by the Ontario Cycling Association and is unique in Ontario. This year it has attracted the support of Share the Road, a cycling coalition raising awareness for bike safety and healthy lifestyle. It offers a rare opportunity to participants on every level because they can experience the thrill of the only European-style race held in the province. The race both starts and finishes near the Forge Pavilion on King St. in Terra Cotta.

     Created in 2005 through the efforts of local resident Ted Webb, with the support of the community and the Brampton Cycling Club, the race became solely a community event in 2009, run entirely by volunteers from surrounding communities and cycling clubs. Proceeds from Le Tour de Terra Cotta will support the Terra Cotta Community Centre Heritage Restoration. The refurbishing of this structure built in 1862, and designated a Caledon Heritage building, has been a labour of love for the local community for over 12 years.

     Nestled in the beautiful Niagara Escarpment, this community event provides an unforgettable experience to children, beginners, cycling enthusiasts and elite athletes. More information is available.  

What kind of cycling do you enjoy?

For more about serious youth cyclists, see our feature article “Kids of Steel Conquer Collingwood.” 

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