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Chamber prepares for Granfondo

When the Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan cycling event returns to the region this summer, Summerland will be involved.

When the Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan cycling event returns to the region this summer, Summerland will be involved.

Lisa Jaager, manager of the Summerland Chamber of Economic Development and Tourism, said the chamber will operate an aid station once again this year.

The chamber ran the station last year, for the first Granfondo event.

“There’s a lot we can do to really promote the Summerland aid station,” Jaager said.

In addition, she said the chamber will work to promote Summerland with other events and activities.

A Friday evening market will be structured to appeal to the cyclists, she said.

The Granfondo event will be held July 6 to 8 in the South Okanagan. Last year, more than 2,000 cyclists participated.

Jaager said the economic impact of the Granfondo is significant.

Last year, eight per cent of the more than 2,000 cyclists stayed in Summerland, many of them for two nights.

The average visitor spent $175 a day while in the community.

“That’s a potential $56,000 infusion of cash into our economy,” Jaager said.

“This is something that has the potential for direct economic impact. If people are interested and motivated, there is a real opportunity.”

The Valley First Granfondo Alex Merckx Okanagan is a fully supported bike ride featuring several categories and distances for cyclists of all levels.

The traditional Granfondo covers 160 kilometres, while the Mediofondo features a 92-kilometre route. A new 55-kilometre Cortofondo will be added for those returning to physical activity.

Information about the Granfondo weekend is at granfondoaxelmerckx.com.

 



John Arendt

About the Author: John Arendt

John Arendt has worked as a journalist for more than 30 years. He has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism degree from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute.
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