CCCTS May 2024 Ottawa Hub and Spoke
Once again, the Capital region put on an excellent Hub and Spoke. The trip ran from May 12 – 18.
We were based in the Kanata area of Ottawa at the Comfort Inn. The hotel was very accommodating to our large group of cyclists. There were quite a few of us that had flown in from the west and rides had been organized to take us from the airport to the hotel. Not only that but the following day some of the local members drove us downtown to pick up our rental bikes.
The week began with a ride in Ottawa to view the tulips. There were options for a shorter ride or a longer ride. Ottawa is a lovely city to cycle in and there is a bit of a European feel to it. The tulips were still in bloom which made for some spectacular viewing.
During the week, our rides took us to Mull of Kintail, Fitzroy Park, Ashton, Pinhey’s Point, Gatineau Park, Carp, Pakenham, Carleton Place and a ride along the Ottawa River. You could choose your destination and length of ride. All rides were led by knowledgeable local members, and we were treated to local history. The small Ontario towns are charming.
On Wednesday evening the Ottawa chapter hosted a BBQ at the beautiful Andrew Haydn Park. The sun came out and we all enjoyed the evening as we socialized and enjoyed the delicious food on offer.
I asked participants to write a very short memory of this trip. I will share what they said:
“I hit a squirrel and stunned it as it tried to cross right in front of me.”
“A great tour of Ottawa and the nation Capital Region from tulip festival and Parliament Building to an inside tour of the Diefenbunker.”
“Bloom season in the nation’s capital was a blooming great time. The warmth and hospitality of the Ottawa chapter is second to none.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed all the rides, beautiful countryside and good friends.
We were well taken care of by the Ottawa CCCTS chapter.”
“First time riding a mountain road with no cars….an added bonus the pavement was smooth!”
“Appreciating the big-hearted hospitality of our Ottawa chapter hosts. We really felt welcome. Thanks”
“Loved the rides, the great trip leaders and the lilacs everywhere.” “Enjoyed Tim as leader with his SLOTH t shirt. It made me smile. Thanks Tim, for a great ride.’
“Flexible, generous hosts both with their time and knowledge.”
“Fantastic paths, awesome ride leaders and Ottawa history. So grateful for the opportunity to enjoy it all by bike.”
“All the rides were fantastic, lots of variety, the hills (Gatineau) were fabulous, the urban rides were lovely and interesting. Great leaders all around.”
“The Gatineau hills were a great ride. Seeing all the signs in French was very interesting.”
A big shout out and thank you to the following people who made this event a huge success:
Nel Ahmed (lead), Linda Graupner (co lead) Geoff Kennedy (co lead).
The following people were volunteer ride leaders: |
Carole Laflamme, Chris Hayes, Tom Wiley, Eugene Rooney,
Chris Cotras, Sam Lauder, Monna-Leigh McElveny, Richard Tobin, Lori Heley, Marg Hurley
My apologies if there is anyone that I have failed to mention. Thank you all.
A thank you also to George Zorn for the photos.
Berni Koppe