September 10, 2023

Testimonials

5!.. 4!.. 3!.. 2!.. 1!… Go! And we’re off!
The sun dawns at the 2019 Gran Fondo Baie Sainte Marie

"5!.. 4!.. 3!.. 2!.. 1!… Go! And we’re off! The adrenaline and excitement coupled with the cheering fans lining the sides of the road, many waving Acadian flags and yelling encouragement, makes the first part of the ride fly by. Soon we turn right and begin riding into the backcountry. Rolling hills, brilliant sunshine, and friendly smiles from other riders make the day perfect."

Read more on Jason Nugent's blog post "Gran Fondo Baie Sainte Marie 2019" 

2019 Testimonials from Participant Survey

Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie is a MUST DO event for any cyclist. There are distances for everyone and the organization is outstanding! The members of the community that come out to cheer you on are fantastic and really make you feel special. The friendliness and hospitality are second to none. DO IT!!! You won't regret it!

Lewis Hinks, Chester, NS

Baie Sainte Marie Gran Fondo was a complete delight. Beautiful scenery, smooth quiet roads, and incredible volunteers and community support! A favourite.

Brenda MacCallum, Quispamsis, NB

What a wonderful event! Nova Scotia, especially the Acadian coast, is breathtakingly beautiful, bike friendly and rich in culture, nature and delicious seafood. I’m coming back for sure!

Margarett (Maggie) Jones, Mystic, CT, USA

It was a very well-organized event with great hospitality. Well worth the travel time from Quebec. We hope to come back next year.

Bill Mahar, Montreal, Quebec

This event is extremely well organized, including the logistics of supporting 1,000 or so participants to park, register, ride, eat, and so on. The registration fee provides great value for money. There's a great sense of enjoyment from doing something with many others who share your interest in healthy activities. One of the route marshals was even giving out chocolate chip cookies! Special thanks to all the energetic volunteers! Well done to everyone!

Jim, Chester Basin, NS

Beautiful scenery, perfect road conditions, safe route, well organized, local people cheering us on, music and lobster - it doesn’t get better than that!!! I highly recommend the Gran Fondo.

Cathy Woodford, Wolfville, NS

The route along the water is spectacular. The roads are quiet and the road surfaces are excellent. The hospitality, friendly volunteers, and cheering locals at the end of their driveways, made it that much more memorable. This event provided us the opportunity to go discover another region of our own backyard and we absolutely loved it.

Greg Arsenault Stratford, PEI

Wonderful event! Beautiful views, well-marked routes, fantastic community spirit, great food!

Laurie, Saint John, NB

Great ride! Great people! Great lobster!

Troy Berlinghoff, Bedford NS

I've done the BSM all 5 years, 3 years of Gran, 2 years of Super Gran. I can't say enough good things about this event, Wonderfully organized, super volunteers and sponsors, and great spectators. A really great experience.

Ron Jeppesen, Chezzetcook NS

A wonderful event for all involved. Well organized, on time, friendly volunteers, and a fantastic route made for an all-around great experience.

Alan, Halifax, NS

This was my first time riding this Gran Fondo and I found it to be an incredible experience. It was very well organized and there was lots of on-route support. The route was challenging, but fun and took you across some beautiful spots. It was a great event and I can't wait to do it again.

James, Moncton, NB

Great ride and would love to return in 2020!

Cynthia, Philadelphia, PA, USA

This seems like a true community event, which adds to the enjoyment of the experience. The route is beautiful, and the volunteers do an outstanding job. Overall, this was a very positive experience!

David MacAulay, Waverley, NS

The community support & volunteers are amazing! Very warm & welcoming to visitors! I’ll be back for my 3rd Baie Sainte-Marie Gran Fondo in 2020. Excellent event all around.

Rod MacIntyre, Dartmouth, NS

This was my first Baie Sainte-Marie Gran Fondo. I did the Piccolo ride this year and plan to challenge myself to the next one up next year. The event was extremely well organized and fun! Loved the Acadian community experience and the scenic beauty of the ride. It felt like the entire community was out there to support us along the way. Way to go Gran Fondo Baie Sainte Marie! You’re the ones who deserve a medal ? See you next year!

Julie Snook, Lunenburg County, NS

The Gran Fondo Baie Sainte Marie was one of the best sporting events that I have ever participated in. Amazing organizers, volunteers and sponsors. The food and music just added to the party atmosphere. This is such a warm welcoming community.

Liz Timleck, St. Albert, Alberta

This was my 3rd Gran Fondo! Such a great event - well organized, awesome volunteers! Great to have different ride options for all levels! Looking forward to next year!

Leonie, Hubley, NS

Loved the variety of scenery from small lakes to ocean to rolling hills in the countryside. Mostly riding on quiet country roads with lots of rest stops. Such great value for a Fondo. And so well organized.

Marilyn Ledingham, Alberta

I travelled from North Saanich (close to Victoria) BC to participate in my second Baie Sainte-Marie Fondo. The event was well organized, the routes were clearly marked and the amazing volunteers and community support were second to none! The routes ensured all participants had the opportunity to roll by the beautiful coastline, experience the thrill of achieving success riding to the crests of the hills and the hospitality of the community rang out to all riders! If anyone is thinking about participating in a Gran Fondo, consider this one! Thanks for a great event, I hope to be back next year again!

Kristiana Stevens, North Saanich, BC

This event was well above my expectations. The volunteers were all so lovely and more than willing to help. The breakfast at the Golf club was great and the volunteers there put in such a feed and it was a great way to start the day. The route was beautiful, lots of support staff along the way and ample rest stops. The staggered start was great as it really let people go out onto the course without having to worry about running into one another The members of the town that were out cheering us along was the energy that you needed! I was not able to complete my 118 km ride due to an injury and the staff came to get me and drove me right back to my car. So helpful. We will be back next year and bringing some cycling friends as well. We can can’t wait.

Kristen and Mike May, NB

This was my first official ride, lot of hills but the feeling of accomplishment and all the fans, pot bangers and cheers along the way made it fun. Bring the family and stay a few days to enjoy the relaxed beautiful surroundings.

Richard Rafuse, South Shore, NS

The Baie Sainte-Marie Gran Fondo is not to be missed. It is incredibly well organized, provides sufficient challenge at all levels, and great jerseys, local entertainment and food. Very well done! My 4th ride will be in 2020, for sure.

Mike Frenette, Bedford, NS

The route was great, the people are great as well as the sites that we ride by. The cheering along the route helps to give you a boost, all the way thru! The people that run this event are, what I call, the very best! They have been able to dot every I, and cross every T, to there very best!

Dave Doucette, Concession, NS

I'd like to thank all the volunteers and sponsors who made this event possible. The rest stops and marshallers were outstanding. To the person who made the energy bars available at the rest stops...Simply FABULOUS stuff.

Simon, Kingston, NS

For a social, sporting, but non-competitive (for most of us) event The Gran Fondo is hard to beat (depending on the weather, of course). It's a great way to stimulate people into taking exercise. The friendliness of the local residents, including the volunteers who run the event, adds greatly to the experience. The effective cooperation of the local emergency associations and police adds much to the functioning of this event.

This was my first year to do the Gran Fondo. I am 71 years old and I did it with my daughter. We felt no pressure to compete against anyone else. The scenery and people were amazing. There were many experiences of others cheering us on, even other cyclers passing us. Getting the metal and hearing our name announced as we crossed the finish line was a super feeling. We hope to come back next year. Thanks for a really nice memory.

This Gran Fondo had always been in my bucket list. Being from the US, travel was a challenge. But that had not dissuaded me from participating. With no ferry service from Maine, I drove further north to Saint John, which was not what I originally planned. I was so determined to experience this event, that I worked diligently with my physical therapist after I tore a knee ligament in June. When the doctor said I need not have surgery, I signed up for this fondo and made it as one of my biggest motivation to heal. And I made it. Thanks to the organizers for the great experience on my first visit to Nova Scotia. I would do it again, soon I hope.

What a wonderful event! Nova Scotia, especially the Acadian coast, is breathtakingly beautiful, bike friendly and rich in culture, nature and delicious seafood. I’m coming back for sure!

Margarett (Maggie) Jones, Mystic, CT, USA

Testimonials via Email

I would like to say that this cycling event is the most fun and most well run event I have ever participated in. From the Saturday registration that included Acadian music and local food to the countless volunteers on race day who provided constant support along the beautiful route. The local community folks were out cheering which helped boost your spirits on those long hills! Finally the lobster dinner and music at the finish area added to the fantastic atmosphere. I did the 118km route which was challenging but very scenic. I’m from Ottawa but the drive was worth it and I look forward to returning next year!

Mike Lacelle

To the organizing committee,
Just wanted to let you know how it was an amazing experience. Extremely well organized and such friendly volunteers cheering us on and guiding us. You have a beautiful Town and will be back next year. Thank you for a job super well done. Hats off to your organizing team and volunteers.
Sincerely,

Lynn Leger, Cap-Pele, NB

Another fantastic event, for the 5th year running. Thank you to the organizers, sponsors and all the friendly volunteers who put so much time and effort into this event. I especially liked the 'construction zone' additions at busy intersections this year. See you in 2020.

Ron Jeppesen

2019 Facebook Reviews

Recommended
This is an excellent event. Organizers went above and beyond to make all participants feel welcome. The townspeople cheered, the rest stations were fantastic. The volunteers were so friendly and helpful. Finishing with a lobster dinner - perfect way to end the fondo. It was one of the best events I have attended in beautiful Baie Saint- Marie. I Will definitely return!

Janet Hudson-Vaughan

Recommended
Oh my was this ever fun! Blown away by the hospitality, the beautiful scenery and the pride that goes into this event. Highly recommended!

Mike Kennedy

Recommended
It is an event that is so well organized. Thank you to all the organizers and volunteers for making it look effortless. The course is spectacular along the coast but what made it even more amazing was people outside all along the way cheering the bikers. It’s a community supporting a great event. Everyone is so friendly. Loved every moment of it. Can’t wait to go again

Lynn Leger

Recommended
Beautiful views, well organized, warm Acadian hospitality with people standing cheering you along the ride, delicious meal at the end

Polina Dondale

Recommended
Awesome ride. Well organized. And lots of hills.

Gary Dentremont

Recommended
well organized and amazing community spirit.

Tammie Bezanson

Recommended
Very well organized. Loved all the people along the entire route cheering us on with signs, cowbells, drums, and shouts of encouragement.

John Menic

Recommended
The scenery is awesome and the organization is first class

Carl Clarke

Recommended
good organization and food

Valerie Corkum

Recommended
What a great event well organized and supported!!! Will ride again next year❣

Christine Loy McKinnon

2019 Facebook Posts

Amazing level of organization, carried out by an unbelievable number of volunteers, has made this event so enjoyable for me five years in a row!

Neil Groeneveld

I wish to thank all of the organizers and volunteers of this wonderful event. Congratulations on 5 years. Looking forward to 2020!

Ian White

Great job with all the work that led up to today, it was an excellent event and the marshals were terrific. Whoever made the homemade granola bars at the rest stops may have inadvertently created heaven in edible form.

Hamish E K Greagor

Big thank you to organizers and volunteers of Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie. Awesome day for our first time participating. Hope to be back.

Valerie Corkum is feeling energized with Kim Rafuse Smith

2019 Facebook Comments

Awesome job! Best home ride ever!????

Neil Warren

Thanks to everyone. First time participating and loved it. Well done
✔✔

Valerie Corkum

Merci à TOUS !!!!
Au Cape...overheard from a biker ? “This is nice just like this place”!

Claudette F. Comeau

Thanks for another spectacular Fondo!!! Always wonderful from start to finish! Roads were great! Well done to everyone including all your volunteers! Home! Xox

Bobbi-Jo Wagner

Thank you so much to all the great volunteers at Gran Fondo Baie Sainte Marie for making this 5th annual event even better than the first 4! Congratulations all!

Stephen Burke

Great event, enjoyed all aspects of the Super Grand Fondo. Thanks to all the volunteers and a special shout out to the motorcycle escorts who got me through safely and the directional help. Merci!

Brian McEachern

Great day ....thanks to all the volinteers who make such an event possible !!!

Molly Saulnier

Fabulous event and thanks to everyone involved... although going into that headwind was dispiriting but when we turned round I flew along..wonderful

Tony Sharpe

Great job by everyone making this happen.

Hamish E K Greagor

great job everyone,well done

Dora Theriault
Jean-Paul Arsenault

2018 Blog Post

"The sun shines brightly as we make our way to the starting line the next morning. It’s a cool 7 degrees C but it’s dead calm. A cyclist’s dream. Dozens of volunteers are there to help you park and offer pre-ride refreshments. Vehicles pour into the parking area, some with high-end gear, others carrying Canadian Tire specials."

Read more on Jean-Paul's Blog post "Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie, 'Es-tu paré?'" 

2018 Participant Video

Facebook Reviews from 2018

Recommended
This was my first EVER Fondo and I absolutely loved everything about it. The community is so much behind this event and thats what makes it even better. I am already booked in at the motel for next year so I will be back! Thanks for a GREAT weekend!

David Taylor

Recommended
Great fun and food! very well organized by wonderful people

Kim Elliott-Foster

4-stars
Great event, nice route, friendly people. A must do!

Un Malin

5-stars
The perfect day for the perfect ride in beautiful Baie Sainte-Marie! It was also very well organized with great hospitality from the organizers, the volunteers, and the locals. My only feedback would be that as we approached the finish there wasn’t clear direction on where to ride.

Mark Peachey

Recommended
Superb support by the community for this event! Felt more like I was in a parade, than on a Bike Ride. My Wife, The Non Bicyclist, is even considering doing it next year.

Joe Baker

Recommended
Fantastic event, congratulations to all of the organizers and especially the volunteers. Well done all involved. Had a great time and will do it again.

Mike Ware

5-stars
Awesome day, well organized, weather was perfect, volunteers were the best and the community was so supportive. An event not to be missed!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dianne Penfound

Recommended
The people in the community are so enthusiastic about the event - it makes it extra fun!

Diane Mombourquette

5-stars
This was my first Gran Fondo. Did the Medio this year with goal to return and do the Gran next year. Having left my home town of Clare 32 years ago to work in Halifax it was great to be part of such an event in a place I will always call “home”. Thanks to all the organizers and volunteers. I am still on a high from yesterday’s amazing event.

Annet Marie

Recommended
Another great day. Ordered perfect weather and no wind.

Douglas Lockerby

Recommended
My first ever Fondo and had a great time on the 118/130 and will be back next for more

Dave Hallidayy

Recommended
The Gran Fondo was very well organized and the volunteers of Clare did a fantastic job, it was very well supported by the community. Without them we would not have had this great day. A Big Big Thank You!!!  We may live in a small community but we sure have good people. Thank You!!!

Lisa Stuart

Recommended
This is a well organized event with a beautiful, If challenging, course. The whole town rallies together to put on the event and everyone is made to feel very welcome. This is one of the most beautiful parts of the province and I would recommend this event to anyone looking for a quality cycling event in NS.

Cathy Carter

Recommended
Very well organized. Amazing volunteers. Great post race food!

Charles Plourde

Recommended
third time this year and always a great ride. Beautiful scenic roads and beautiful people.

Neil Marc Pothier

Recommended
First time at the event and in a word- Brilliant !!!! From the online registration to check in to race day to the meal the organizers and volunteers were helpful and cheerful. Everything went very smooth and of course the outstanding race day weather was icing on the cake. Thank you for a great Gran Fondo experience.

Paul Edwards

Email testimonials from 2018

Come all the way from NJ, and yes I do a lot of Fondos, did the super fondo the ride was great and the people were super, but I have to give you some constructive criticism about the rest stops, oranges and bananas won;t do it for a 100 mile ride I stopped at 2 rest stops and that was all they had, you need GU's and PB&J sandwiches and bars, the bars at the  last one were expired, date on back said 7-01-18 and you ran out by the time my wife showed up doing the 72 mile route! all and all a great ride thanks to your volunteers!

Ken A. Levins

My wife and I traveled from Grantham, New Hampshire to participate in this years Fondo.  This was the 5th Fondo we have ridden in this year and we wanted to let you know how impressed we were with your organization, the routes and the community support.  I have never had so many people cheering, banging pots and ringing cowbells before.  Made for a very enjoyable day and we hope to return next year.!

Rod Taylor

Was at your wonderful event...you guys nailed it. Thank you all very very much.

Justin Tait from Kentville, Nova Scotia

My husband and I had a wonderful (WONDERFUL) time in Saulnierville.  We stayed with Arleen and Paul, thanks to you, and we were treated to warm hospitality. I was especially moved to see how many folk in the community spent a good part of the day encouraging the cyclists as though they were their own cousins. It was beautiful. For all of your hard work, and your obvious love for your town, thank you!

Valerie

I just want to pass along compliments to you & your great volunteers for an awesome event. It was a great event from start to finish We'll be back!!

Jeff

Just wanted to let you know that my friends and I had an absolute ball at your event!! Your committee, volunteers and residents deserver a big pat on the back for a job well done. Best way I can put it is everyone was “ALL IN” to making your event a success.

Well organized, beautiful views, great roads, great food, super friendly people…see you next year!!!!!!!!!!

Richard Irvine

Facebook Reviews from 2017

5-stars
This is an incredible event. This was my second year doing it. The event is incredibly well-organized and with the strong community involvement and support, it just feels good to do it. Add to that the incredible scenery on the ride, and this is the nicest ride I have done all year. In addition, the new Super Gran Fondo route was a great challenge. I'll be back next year as well.

John Douglas Trites

5-stars
Amazing event - highly recommend it and I will be back. 960 riders in 2017 but not congested because it was so well organized. Great roads and scenery and fabulous food - both at the rest stops and the lobster dinner.

Sheila Cameron

5-stars
Fantastic event. Well organized and well supported by the community. One of my favourite events of the year. Already have my room booked for next year. If you have not ridden in this Fondo, you owe it to yourself to do so. Congratulations on yet another awesome event!!

Lewis Hinks

5-stars
So much fun to participate in this Fondo. From easy registration to riding through the celebratory arches at the end of the ride, the whole event was well organized, the hospitality, friendliness and vocal community support all along the very scenic route made for a great day. We'll done Baie Sainte Marie! We'll be back!

Janet Ness

5-stars
I am so impressed with this gran fondo; it is organized, has stunning scenery, and is so fun! I highly recommend.

JennLee MacDonald

5-stars
Extremely well organized and fully supported by the surrounding communities. We were spurred on by people at the roadside with bells, pots and spoons and clapping. Beautiful scenery and lots of volunteers to direct the cyclists. The weather couldn't have been better.

Alan Scott

5-stars
An awesome event! Beautiful surroundings, good roads, almost nil traffic. Very well organized and all the volunteers and people cheering you on we're amazing! Will definitely be back!

Troy Berlinghoff

5-stars
People, food, volunteers, organizers....from start to finish the entire event was fantastic and everyone involved including the participants made this an amazing experience!! Incroyable!!

BJ Wagner

5-stars
Fantastic event, A big kudos to the staff and people of Claire and surrounding communities well done and cannot wait till next year.

Jonathan Hilder

5-stars
Extremely well-organized event. Lots of entertainment, food, and fun. Thank you to all the volunteers that make this event happen.

Guy Deveau

5-stars
WOW! No other words adequate! Amazing event, organization was terrific, volunteers great, scenery spectacular and support from communities en route heartwarming. Way to go Baie Sainte-Marie!

Monique Gaudet

5-stars
Well organized event!! A great job was done by everyone. Thank you to everyone! I will be doing it again next year for sure!

Dora Melanson

5-stars
Thanks to everyone, who played a part in putting on this wonderful event!!! We will be back!

Dave Lisa Doucette

5-stars
I wish to thank the organizers and volunteers of this world class cycling event. Great work.

Daniel Thimot

5-stars
Very well organized, community backed and supported, definitely will be back.

Sheldon Mcquillan

5-stars
Well organized event. Great food. It was awesome the day could not have been better. Loved doing the piccolo with my daughter.

Helen Maillet

5-stars
Had so much fun! A very well organized event! I will be back next year!

Jen Gorman

5-stars
Great event ,well run and the people were awesome!

Kari-Lynne Drummond

5-stars
Awesome event, gets better every year! Takes lots of dedicated volunteers to make it happen.

Steven Jeddry

Email Testimonials from 2017

A world class event in a small town. The 160 km Super Fondo route has all you can ask for: smooth roads, low traffic, sweeping coastal views, and plenty of rolling hills to make sure you get a good challenge. On top of all that, you get a taste of the Acadian culture with exceptional food, entertainment, and hospitality.

Steven Jeddry, Clare, NS
Steven Jeddry

The locals were so friendly and seemed so glad to have us visit their community. Acadien pur laine, I may be a bit biased, but the hospitality seemed to come so naturally to les gens de La Baie. More than a ride, the Gran Fondo Baie-Sainte-Marie is truly a genuine cultural experience. Just posted a blog at jean-paul-arsenault.blogspot.ca "Gran Fondo Baie-Sainte-Marie". Really enjoyed your event.

Jean-Paul Arsenault from Charlottetown, PEI

I do lots of events in England, where I live, but this was my first event in NS/Canada. It was fabulous. What stood out for me was the excellent organisation before, during and after the event and the warm and friendly welcome from the whole community. The roads were empty of traffic, you probably knew that but I didn't, which definitely would not be the case here in England. See you next year.

Tony Sharpe from Huddersfield, UK

As I made final determination to make Nova Scotia my new home, I made a list of the things I really wanted. I was looking for a change, peace and quiet, stars at night, access to the ocean, a garden, the hooting of an owl, fireflies and nearby, a major cycling event. I was elated to find that there are two such events close by during early fall. It is important to understand that the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie is not a race - it is a joyous cycling event! While the time of each rider is clocked, the flavour of the event is one of camaraderie and collaboration. Along the way riders offer cheers to one another and local residents shouted bravos, banged pots and waved with abandon from the roadside.

William Lucas from Tiverton, NS (formerly from BC)

We rode this past weekend in the Grand Fondo and was so impressed. It was our first time in that area and the hospitality and organization was top notch. We felt welcomed by your community, safe and enjoyed every moment of the 67 km, except those hills. From the Moncton, NB riders, a big thank you, job well done. See you next year...probably will still suck at the hills but, if there is lobster at the end bring them on!

Heather Doucet, Moncton, NB

Facebook Reviews from 2016

5-stars
Amazing event and we will absolutely put it on our list for next year too! Thank you to the entire community! We felt so special and spoiled with your heritage and hospitality!

Melissa Ross Idfa Pro, Halifax NS

5-stars
What a fabulous race and so much fun with people waving us along the route and all the attention to detail. The route was interesting and challenging. Good work everyone and thank you. I'll definitely be back again.

Jill Sherrill Smith, Glenwood, NS

5-stars
What an amazing event and the highlight to my 2016 cycling season ... well except the wind ah.

Andrew Treharne, Fredericton NB

5-stars
Thanks to all the volunteers and organizers! Amazing ride, great food, great music. Went off without a hitch, and all the people along the route cheering us on was fantastic!

Stefan Hadubrandson

5-stars
Incredibly well organized event. Such dedication on the part of the organisers, community and local on the side of the roads. This will be on my calendar next year for sure! The lobster meal made me forget about one of my windiest ride ever, and cold too

Stephane Moulin, Halifax NS

5-stars
Merci to all the volunteers, organizers, sponsors, roadside fans, other cyclists and understanding drivers for making this a memorable event again this year. Sept 23-24 is blocked out already in my 2017 calendar.

Jim Vance, Hopewell NS

5-stars
Great event in a great area of Nova Scotia. I enjoyed the Acadian hospitality.

Joe Reid, Dartmouth NS

5-stars
It is extremely well organized! I felt safe the whole time I was on the ride.

Danielle Jeddry, Meteghan NS

5-stars
It was great. Very well organized. Thank you the organizing committee and a special thank you to all those wonderful volunteers. See you next year.

Odette Comeau, Bangor NS

5-stars
Amazing! Although I am not the biggest biker enthusiast around, I can say that I'm already excited to participate again next year:)

Tania Saulnier, Saulnierville NS

5-stars
Congratulations to the organizing committee. A job well done.

Rejean LeBlanc, Meteghan NS

5-stars
Magic! Smiling faces everywhere. Sun, wind and grey clouds winking at each other, nudging their place between summer and fall. Orange shirted volunteers working like playful children snapping photos, serving fricot and refreshments, overseeing security. Ocean, rivers, trees and properties delivering the scenery. Residents cheering on the wayside. Cyclists’ bliss. Abundant rolling free energy bound by camaraderie. Organizers discreetly holding the show together. Individual challenges overriding competition. No politics. Just a free-spirited smile at the finish line. Lobster and musicians feeding the hungry. Harmony. Sponsors and local government answering the call of cyclists. Young, old, families. Riders from near and far. New found friendships. Transforming la Baie Sainte-Marie through a weekend of playful enchantment. Such is the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie. Grassroots magic. The kind that creates a volunteer waiting list. Community as it can and should be.

Germaine Comeau, Meteghan River NS

5-stars
I Would like to thank all the organizing committee and the volunteers to make this wonderful day a success . I had three couples stay at my house again this year and they loved it :)

Renette Boissonnault, Clare NS

Facebook Reviews from 2015

5-stars
Great event, well organized. Lots of locals out cheering you on. Looking forward to next year!

Erin Moniez

5-stars
Amazing organization, tremendous community support, it's hard to believe this was the inaugural event!!!! Congratulations to all involved. I can't wait to bring all my friends next year to experience this ride.

David Roddis

5-stars
Wonderful to see all the bikers. Congratulations to all the people who made such a large event come together.

Donna McCauley

5-stars
This was an amazing event! So well organized! The people of Clare are unbelievably friendly, welcoming and encouraging. Especially enjoyed the "Worst Parade Ever!" family! What a hoot!

Elaine Ingraham Callaghan

5-stars
That was awesome! You guys did a great job organising. It was wonderful to see such a huge amount of support from the community. I'll be back again.

Donna McCauley

Posts and Comments from Facebook

Thank you for organizing and bringing the Grand Fondo to la Baie St Marie. It was so well organized. ...good job everyone

Dora Melanson

It was a great success and VERY well organized!!

Melissa Doucet

It was so much fun, excellent organization and community enthusiasm. Congrats Clare!

Heather Yule

It was AMAZING! What a wonderful event showcasing an amazing community. And the entire area had its beauty on full display. Great weather and friendly faces at every turn. Best homecoming ever! Merci! Merci!

David Roddis

It was awesome to see all those bikes passing in front of my house in Bangor very well organized.

Norma Comeau

Fantastic event, thanks for organizing. Will be back next year :)

Heather Astroff

Congratulations to the organizers, volunteers and participants! It was awesome! A big thank you to those who put all this together! You did a marvellous job!!

Rose Comeau

One of the nicest bicycle events i have ever attended!!! People where wonderful.

Fenton Cunningham

It was a truly awesome day. Weather was perfect and the community of Clare were on fire for us. Thank you

Korina Murphy

I must say, there wasn't one aspect of the event overlooked! Even the community took part first thing in the morning. An awesome thing to see. Thank you! Also to the committee of Baie Sainte Marie Gran Fondo, a big Congratulations! On your success! Bravo!!

Sonya Church Misner

Had the pleasure of being back home (Clare, NS) this weekend for their first ever GranFondo (Nova Scotia's first!). Spent the day cycling with some good friends and saw many familiar faces. Such great weather and a wonderfully organized event. Amazing job to all the organizers. Looking forward to next year.

Simply For Life Sussex

Thank you for a fantastic event! First time down in this beatiful part of the province, just stunning. A big Shout out and thank you to all involved, organizers, volunteers etc and for the community who welcomed all us riders and cheered us on throughout the day. #‎bikefun

Jo Fraser

Thank you for such an amazing event volunteers were great and everything was better than expected can't wait for next year

Phil Grant

A very well organized and fun event...I can't think of anything that could be changed...thank you

Wanda McClellan

Ready to ride?

Register for the 2024 Terra Fondo on June 9, 2024 !