Victoria News

Victoria and Fraser Valley Ride 2025

Victoria and Fraser Valley Riders Share the Saanich Peninsula Trails

On Wednesday, August 20, more than sixty-five riders from the Victoria and Fraser Valley chapters enjoyed a day out on the Saanich Peninsula. Ride leaders Deb C, Donna B-B, Donna K, Paul Q, Bob L, and Mary F guided the groups along quiet country roads and local trails, many of which were new to the Fraser Valley riders and much appreciated for their scenery.

The event came together through strong coordination. Clark and Maggie from the Fraser Valley worked with Mary to align plans, while Sharlane and Maureen organized the picnic. They managed dozens of baked items and laid them out so riders could easily refuel. Behind them stood a large team effort of family members, friends, and Victoria riders who baked and pitched in to make it work.

The Fraser Valley riders loved the day. Several even hinted that it should become a tradition. Their own comments captured the spirit best: “a great day all around,” “a successful day,” and “a community event that showed the energy and love of cycling.”

Thanks go to:

  • Coordinators: Mary (Victoria), Clark and Maggie (Fraser Valley)

  • Ride leaders: Deb C, Donna B-B, Donna K, Paul Q, Bob L, and Mary F

  • Picnic leads: Sharlane and Maureen

  • All the bakers and helpers who contributed

It was a fine example of what CCCTS does best: bringing riders together, sharing the load, and enjoying the day both on and off the bike.

Inaugural CCCTS Munn Road Time Trial

Inaugural CCCTS Munn Road Time Trial

“How many do you think would show up?” “No idea. I’ll be happy if we get three. ” 

The idea of the time trial came from Ryder Hesjedal going up Munn Road during the first edition of the Tour de Victoria almost 15 years ago. If Ryder can climb it at an average of 32 kph, how would CCCTS members do?  The ride was also intended to attract younger members. To be inclusive, there were five categories: Men, Women, Men Ebike, Women Ebike, and because some members ride tandems and trikes an Open category that even included unicycles. Winners receive a free Red Barn sandwich.

So on a Wednesday in late August, after the hot summer days were over, Brian Collier, co-leader and I arrived early to the Switch Bridge. Waiting there was Paul Quinn. Then Mary Freeman and Lani Shultz rolled in. Three.

We rode to Francis King to meet other members coming from the Western Communities. No more riders. After the sign in, bathroom break and filling our water bottles we proceeded a few kilometres to the start at the bottom of the hill. Last minute instructions. Three, Two, One, Go, and a mass start of five took off. Waiting at the top was Dianne Collier, the time keeper, Donna, the photographer, plus a tray of oranges and cookies. Cell phone reception is spotty in this area of the Highlands. Dianne brought her car in case of an emergency. The average of the riders was 75, and most of us have health issues.

Brian quickly took the lead, his ebike on turbo. Paul tried to keep up but almost cooked the first downhill bend going 50 kph. Then long gaps, Mary, Lani and I spread out all over the road. Five kilometers with an average gradient of 4.5% (a deceiving number), a few downhill sections, but a killer 20% grade before the very top. Weather 22 degrees, sunny, no wind. Smooth pavement, no traffic, mostly shade. Perfect conditions for a time trial.

Brian crossed the line first with a time of 15 minutes 35 second and average speed of almost 20 kph. Paul, recovering from a bad fall off a ladder, was two and a half minutes behind, his average speed an impressive 17.61 kph. Mary, always complaining that she can’t do hills, won her category with an average speed of 14.16 kph. I was next a full 2 minutes behind. Shortly after, Lani dragged herself in, happy as this was her first time up Munn Road.

After recovering and much congratulations, the group continued through scenic Highlands, speeded down Willis Point Road and had well deserved sandwiches at the Red Barn. A good time was had by all.

Special thanks to Dianne Collier and Donna Kerkoven. 

Bob Louie

Results of the 2025 CCCTS Munn Road Time Trial

1. Brian Collier. Winner, Mens Ebike. 15 minutes, 35 seconds. 19.55 kph. 

2. Paul Quinn. Winner, Mens. 17 minutes, 04 seconds. 17.61 kph. 

3. Mary Freeman. Winner, Womens. 21 minutes, 19 seconds. 14.16 kph. 

4. Bob Louie. 23 minutes, 15 seconds. 12.96 kph.

5. Lani Schultz. 24 minutes. 12.5 kph.

   

“How many do you think would show up?” “No idea. I’ll be happy if we get three. ” 

The idea of the time trial came from Ryder Hesjedal going up Munn Road during the first edition of the Tour de Victoria almost 15 years ago. If Ryder can climb it at an average of 32 kph, how would CCCTS members do?  The ride was also intended to attract younger members. To be inclusive, there were five categories: Men, Women, Men Ebike, Women Ebike, and because some members ride tandems and trikes an Open category that even included unicycles. Winners receive a free Red Barn sandwich.

So on a Wednesday in late August, after the hot summer days were over, Brian Collier, co-leader and I arrived early to the Switch Bridge. Waiting there was Paul Quinn. Then Mary Freeman and Lani Shultz rolled in. Three.

We rode to Francis King to meet other members coming from the Western Communities. No more riders. After the sign in, bathroom break and filling our water bottles we proceeded a few kilometres to the start at the bottom of the hill. Last minute instructions. Three, Two, One, Go, and a mass start of five took off. Waiting at the top was Dianne Collier, the time keeper, Donna, the photographer, plus a tray of oranges and cookies. Cell phone reception is spotty in this area of the Highlands. Dianne brought her car in case of an emergency. The average of the riders was 75, and most of us have health issues.

Brian quickly took the lead, his ebike on turbo. Paul tried to keep up but almost cooked the first downhill bend going 50 kph. Then long gaps, Mary, Lani and I spread out all over the road. Five kilometers with an average gradient of 4.5% (a deceiving number), a few downhill sections, but a killer 20% grade before the very top. Weather 22 degrees, sunny, no wind. Smooth pavement, no traffic, mostly shade. Perfect conditions for a time trial.

Brian crossed the line first with a time of 15 minutes 35 second and average speed of almost 20 kph. Paul, recovering from a bad fall off a ladder, was two and a half minutes behind, his average speed an impressive 17.61 kph. Mary, always complaining that she can’t do hills, won her category with an average speed of 14.16 kph. I was next a full 2 minutes behind. Shortly after, Lani dragged herself in, happy as this was her first time up Munn Road.

After recovering and much congratulations, the group continued through scenic Highlands, speeded down Willis Point Road and had well deserved sandwiches at the Red Barn. A good time was had by all.

Special thanks to Dianne Collier and Donna Kerkoven. 

Bob Louie

Results of the 2025 CCCTS Munn Road Time Trial

1. Brian Collier. Winner, Mens Ebike. 15 minutes, 35 seconds. 19.55 kph. 

2. Paul Quinn. Winner, Mens. 17 minutes, 04 seconds. 17.61 kph. 

3. Mary Freeman. Winner, Womens. 21 minutes, 19 seconds. 14.16 kph. 

4. Bob Louie. 23 minutes, 15 seconds. 12.96 kph.

5. Lani Schultz. 24 minutes. 12.5 kph.

   

 

Saturna Island Ride – July 12

Saturna Island Ride – July 12

Eleven riders headed to Saturna Island on July 12 for three days of cycling, hiking, and camaraderie. Our home base was Saturna Lodge on Boot Cove, a warm, cottage-like retreat where we had the run of the kitchen, dining room, and lounges.

On Day One, we set out on a 32 km ride to East Point. The route included one notoriously steep pitch (some of us may have walked it, but that’s our secret) and then opened up to a beautiful ride shaded by firs and maples with occasional ocean views. After a picnic lunch and a short walk near the lighthouse, we returned to the lodge for a lively potluck dinner.

Day Two featured a 17 km ride along Narvaez Road to a hiking trail, with lunch on the go and even a swim break for two hardy riders. That evening’s feast, lasagne, sides, and desserts, was matched by the easy laughter and good company around the table.

On Day Three, with our local guide unavailable, we adjusted plans, cleaned up the lodge together, and caught the 10:30 a.m. ferry to Mayne Island. Some squeezed in a ride on the newly paved trail before boarding for Victoria, while one Vancouver rider had already slipped away at dawn to catch the Tsawwassen ferry.

What stood out most wasn’t just the scenery or the rides, but the group itself. We shared stories, meals, and responsibilities, and looked out for each other throughout. It was a trip filled with cooperation, goodwill, and the kind of memories that make us want to return.

Victoria Chapter Steering Committee Minutes – January 16, 2025

CCCTS Steering Committee Meeting – Jan 16, 2025

Present: Mary F, John P, Rolf P, Don M, Donna K, Dianne C & Guests: Bob Louie & Brian Collier

The Treasurer, John, provided a report of the recent funds spend: The AGM: $241.21; Christmas Dance: $969.36; Donation to Red Cross: $250.00 Leaving the bank balance of: $3607.48

The Howl at the Moon Event was discussed, with Rolf taking the leadership on the arrangements for this one, to be held June 25, 2025, at Eagle Beach, Elk Lake.

Next a discussion took place on rides, and ideas to improve, for locations and attendance.

These details are in the attachment, and will be posted to our website for our Victoria Area members to peruse and offer comments and suggestions, once the steering committee has read and provided edits and comments etc.

A further discussion took place for ideas for a Christmas Event this year. It is felt that we should not spend more of our bank balance to supplement a Dinner/Dance Event as it is heavily subsidized, and we should diversify our funds into other areas.

We may consider an afternoon event, which makes it easier for members to attend in daylight instead of driving at night. Locations for a possible Christmas afternoon event (e.g. 1-4 PM ish) which would allow members to gather to socialize and purchase a alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink and food if they wish. Looking for a location which already has a bar, so we don’t have to have a member with Serve it Right and purchasing alcohol etc. Further discussion will take place on ideas for Christmas.

Some suggestions are: Oak Bay Recreation Centre, upstairs; Archie Browning Arena; Cedar Hill Clubhouse. We will follow up and see if any of these venues will allow us to meet with no or nominal fees to use the space if we purchase drinks, and food. Parking availability is good at Oak Bay and Cedar Hill, and fair at Archie Browning.

Next Meeting: March 27, 11:00 AM at Don Mais’ place.

Victoria Chapter Members.

The Steering Committee held a recent meeting and discussed ideas for rides and how to improve the variety and pleasure for everyone. Please feel free to add ideas, comments etc. and email Dianne who will forward it back to the committee for discussion. Diannecollier2@gmail.com

Sunday Rides:

Suggested –

  • First Sunday of each month – to request a new leader. This is your chance to gain some experience and confidence in leading rides; Brian and/or Donna (and others who have led in the past) will be on the ride. The leader should provide a ride (use our Ride with GPS website: https://ridewithgps.com/) and lead the ride. We will initiate this idea starting the first Sunday in February. These rides will be posted as a Mystery Ride, and if nobody comes forward for that week, Brian or Donna will lead a ride of their choice and it will be provided at the Meet up site (whole foods).
    Anyone interested in leading a ride February 2, 2025, please contact Brian Collier by Wednesday, January 29, and he will walk you through the process. Brian.g.collier@gmail.com or home 250 385-0885.
  • Second Sunday of each month – Special interest ride, looking at art/murals; a history tour with stops at places of interest; hidden pathways and cut-throughs around town. Other ideas?
  • Third Sunday of each month – Foodie Ride (Cheap lunch day, while we still have to eat inside). The object is to spend $10 or under for lunch. Some of the ideas: Quality Foods Chinese Food, A & W, Fujiya on Shelbourne St., Bakery stop.
  • Fourth Sunday of each month – (and sometimes a fifth). Will be a free ride with no special agenda.

    Wednesday Rides:

Suggested –

  • Marigold meet up ride; 10:45 meet, leave approx. 11:00 AM to various points at the peninsula with a lunch stop if wished. At this point in time, the majority of riders go to Marigold and stay for up to an hour, then just go home. Perhaps this could be revived as the Wednesday rides were in the past to include a ride and stop.
  • Gerry Porter Memorial ride: late July/early August, starts from Brentwood Bay Ferry (to Mill Bay), then ride to a picnic lunch at Bright Angel Park. Three routes. Organizer Don Mais.
  • Michael Bonner Memorial ride. Coffee at Marigold Cafe, to Amity Overpass and a restaurant lunch. 

Getaway rides:

 

  • Long Beach, already planned for May 12, 13, 14, 2025, Ride Full.
    (Contact person Rolf or Sharlane Petersen. rolfs31@gmail.com)
  • Saturna Island, already planned Aug 12, 13, 2025 (Contact person Jean MacDonald Email: jeanmacdonald75@gmail.com Phone: 250-812-3003)
  • Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, already planned September 17, 18, 2025. More details to come in the next month for booking etc. Too early to book currently. (Contact person Bob Louie (bblouie.8888@gmail.com) or Brian Collier, (brian.g.collier@gmail.com))

 

CCCTS Victoria – Shawnigan Ride, Wed, July 27th, 2022

 

CCCTS Victoria First Summer Ferry Ride and Swim: Shawnigan Lake

Submitted by Mikkel Bonner and Denise Howes with pictures from Brian Collier and John Pritchard

Eleven of us braved the heat and took the 8:40am ferry to Mill Bay on July 27th. We separated into two groups, a shorter and a longer route.

The shorter route took us up to Shawnigan Village using a little-known detour. After coffee, we rode on to Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park for a much-anticipated swim and lunch. Then on to complete the circuit around the lake. That was the hottest part of the ride, up to 33C. The reward was the downhill ride to Mill Bay and a stop for ice cream! Total distance cycled about 40 kilometers.

The longer route of 60 kilometers took five of us into Cobble Hill, for a stop at a new coffee spot, that roasts their own beans and makes their own chocolate! We then headed out for a 5K gravel ride around Cobble Hill. Back down Shawnigan Lake/Renfrew Rd to the E&N Rail Trail before meeting the other group for lunch at the park. After a dip in the lake for some, we headed off for the east side of Shawnigan, up to the village, then on to Cameron Taggert Rd. For a cool ride on a somewhat quiet road. Back on Shawnigan/Mill Bay Rd, and on to Mill Bay for an ice cream bar. Plenty of time to meet the rest of the group for the ferry ride home.

At the ferry we met up with the other group and a bunch of other cyclists and celebrated the end of the ride with a lot of discussion about the day’s events. Despite the heat all went well, no heatstroke or anything, just a group of tired and hot cyclists!

The second Summer Ferry Ride, to Cowichan Bay, will take place on August 10.  

A group of people posing for a photo

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A group of people sitting on a picnic table

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Cowichan Valley Spring Classic

 

Cowichan Valley Spring Classic, Sunday, June 13, 2021

This is a notice of interest for a bicycle ride in the Cowichan Valley, Sunday, June 13, 2021. It is an invitational ride, open to members of the CCCTS Victoria Chapter.

There will be two rides, a 60 km ride and a shorter 40 km ride. Both rides start and end at Bright Angel Provincial Park located on Koksilah Road about a 40-minute car ride from Victoria. The bike ride will head in a north-westerly direction up the Cowichan River. Most of the route is flat, but there are several short steep climbs. The ride will be divided into groups of six, and each with a leader and a sweep. There will be a maximum of 18 riders. COVID protocol will be followed. Riders are to bring their own lunch and arrange for their own transport to Bright Angel.

E-bike riders are welcome.  This is NOT a ride for beginners or leisurely riders.   The ride paces are 18-20 km/hr for the 40 km ride, and 20-22 km/hr for the 60 km ride.  The rides will have 6 riders with leaders and sweeps.

Riders must have had their first shot of the COVID vaccine.

If you are interested, please reply to Donna Kerkhoven at dkerkhoven22@gmail.com informing of your route choice.  The cut-off to reply is Wednesday, June 9 by 5 pm.

 Details of the ride and route will be sent to you several days before the ride. In the event of rain, the ride may be changed to the following Sunday.  As group size is limited, the first 18 to apply to Donna will be notified.

Organizers for this ride are Bob Louie (bblouie8888@gmail.com), Brian Collier brian.g.collier@gmail.com and Donna Kerkhoven dkerkhoven22@gmail.com.

 

 

 

New Year’s Day Events – 2020

NY’s Day Gov House Levee Ride

Please join Allen & ilka Olsen again for this annual ride.  Meet at Whole Foods @ 9.30 for the short ride to Gov House.  After the levee we will ride  to Broadmead for the annual New Year’s Day Gathering which is at David & Dale Featherstonehaugh’s home this year.  We will return to Whole Foods afterwards should anyone be unfamiliar with the route.       Questions:   ilkaaolsen@gmail.com    250-889-2484   250-539-9920

New Year’s Day Levée

Each January 1st, the Lieutenant Governor opens the doors to Government House for the annual New Year’s Day Levée. Her Honour greets the public and visitors have an opportunity to enjoy light refreshments and music such as the Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipes and Drums. The New Year’s Day Levée has been a tradition among Vice Regal houses since British Columbia entered Confederation in 1871.

The 2020 Levée takes place on Wednesday, January 1, 2020, from 10 am to 12 pm.  Presiding will be the Honourable Janet Taylor.

Minutes of the First Victoria Chapter Meeting

CCCTS VICTORIA CHAPTER
MEETING MINUTES
3 December 2018

Opening
The first Annual General Meeting of the CCCTS VICTORIA CHAPTER was called to order at 10:12 am on 3
December 2018 at the Mary Winspear Centre by Alex Laird.
Steering Committee Representatives
Alex Laird, Donna Kerkhoven, Bruce Daykin, Max McClanahan, Don Mais, Ken Stepushyn, Allen Olsen, Ilka
Allers-Olsen
Approval of Agenda
The agenda was unanimously approved as distributed.
Vote of the Attendees Present to Ratify Victoria Chapter’s Constitution
Motioned: Bruce Daykin and Ken Stepushyn. Motion passed unanimously.
Nominations for the Victoria Chapter executive
1. President: Alex Laird
2. Treasurer: Allen Olsen
3. Secretary: Ilka Allers-Olsen
4. Ride Coordinator: Donna Kerkhoven
5. Social Convener: Don Mais
Motioned: Jim Grayson and Rolf Petersen. Motion passed unanimously.
Discussion from members
1. Rolf Peterson spoke of declining membership.
a. Donna Kerkhoven mentioned advertising on Meetup and Facebook
2. Geoff (?) spoke about organizing rides more efficiently, ie, have different speed levels
3. Bruce Daykin said that we now have money to educate children, etc.
4. Alex Laird asked for ride leaders.
a. Volunteers: Ilka Allers-Olsen, Bruce Daykin, Diane Swindell, Bob Townsend, Alex Laird,
Ken Stepushyn, Jim Grayson
i. Ken Stepushyn opted to lead a ride to Chemainus where riders could see live theatre and
stay at the local hotel.

5. Michel Bonner suggested having dedicated rides for e-bikes
Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at 10:30 by Alex Laird. The next Annual General Meeting will be held in December 2019.

Minutes taken by Donna Kerkhoven secretary of the Steering Committee

Chinese New Years

Chinese Lunar New Year is upon us and what better excuse for a pig out than the Year of the Pig!!   Brenda and Bob Louie have once again graciously agreed to arrange a multi course lunch in China Town to Celebrate.  The plan is to meet at Whole Foods around 10:00 and then ride to the Golden Palace on Fisgard.  This will be more of a brunch than lunch so we would start at 11:15 and done by 12:30.  The price is $20.00 per person which includes taxes and tip.

2019 Chinese New Year CCCTS Brunch  Year of the Pig.  Symbol of Wealth and Fortune
 
Menu                   Egg Rolls
                               Diced Chicken with Cashew mixed vegetables
                               Chinese Style Chow mein
                               Boneless Almond Chicken
                               Deep Fried Prawns
                               Stir Fried Pork Chops with Beijing Sauce
                              Crispy Ginger Fried Beef
                              Yang Chow (with little shrimps) Fried Rice
 
Date:                       11:00 am Sunday, February 10, 2019  
Place:                      Golden City Restaurant, 721 Fisgard Street
Availability:             Maximum 56 people  (7 tables of 8 per table)
Price:                       $20 per person (taxes and gratuity is included)
Contact and payment:     Social Convener: Don Mais don.mais@telus.net
DEADLINE DATE:    Sunday, February 3rd in order to give numbers to the restaurant.                    
 
 
                                     
 For those who prefer a Vegetarian Plate, please inform our Social Director Don Mais  . Same price, to keep things simple.   
 
      Bike parking is at the front of the restaurant, or across the street at The Hudson. Car parking is free on the street or in the parkade. However, it is Chinese New Year and that Sunday will be busy.
 
We will be collecting money at the Sunday and Wednesday rides but if anyone needs some special attention in this regard please let me know and I will arrange a get together. 
 
 
There may be more details going forward and I will keep you informed.  If you have never been on this ride (more of a banquet than a ride to be honest) consider joining us.  It is always a lot of fun.
 
Alex