Latest news with #DiscoveryRoutes
Hamilton Spectator
30-07-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Cyclists tackle 200 km of gravel to support Health Centre
The Voyageur 200, an epic 200 kilometre ride over the region's gravel roads, is an endurance test to say the least, but the race's purpose – raising funds for the North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC) Foundation — spurs the riders on. The event returns on August 16, and if you feel 200 kilometres is too much for you, rest assured participants don't have to ride the entire course. New for this year is a 30 km course, which for organizers is a way to welcome riders who may be new to two-wheeling over gravel. There are also 60- and 100-kilometre courses, designed to attract as many riders as possible to the charitable event. The money raised stays local at the NBRHC with the purpose of raising awareness and support for Aphasia, a language impairment caused by strokes, a cause close to the heart of event organizer and stroke survivor Jeff Miller. The entire ride winds along gravel backroads and trails through Corbeil, Bonfield, Mattawa, North Bay, and Callander. The race was founded two years ago in partnership with Discovery Routes, and since then, riders have raised over $8,000. Regarding the partnership, Miller noted, 'Teaming up with Discovery Routes is a great way to showcase the incredible network of trails across the region, help grow the community of riders and encourage new investments in trails.' The event is entirely volunteer run, and this year's title sponsor is Lefebvre Commercial Industrial, based in Corbeil. In a release for the event, Tammy Morison, President & CEO of the NBRHC Foundation, emphasized, 'Events like this not only raise critical funds, but also build awareness and bring our community together in a powerful way. We're inspired by every rider, volunteer, and donor who pedals with purpose to support exceptional healthcare for our loved ones.' Along the route, riders are supported with aid stations offering water and light snacks along the way. After the race, organizers are hosting a barbeque at the Four Seasons Club on Corbeil Road. A donation to the NBRHC will get you in the door whether you participated in the race or not. Enjoy some barbeque, a cash bar, and afternoon entertainment. To register for the race, or to donate or sponsor the event, all the details are on the event's website at . David Briggs is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of BayToday, a publication of Village Media. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
CTV News
15-05-2025
- General
- CTV News
Powassan man honoured for dedication to local trails
A gathering was held at the Pines Trails in Powassan, Ont. on Thursday to celebrate 'trail champions' from around the Nipissing region. Pine Trails gathering June 29 A number of volunteers from the Nipissing region gathered Thursday at the Pines Trails in Powassan, Ont. to celebrate local 'trail champions.' (Supplied/Discovery Routes) Discovery Routes is a charity organization that connects communities across the north through trails. There are at least 56 separate community trail partners responsible for the stewardship of local trails. Most of the groups rely entirely on volunteers who donate their time and energy to maintaining and improving the trails. The organization has launched a Trail Volunteer Appreciation Program to bring attention to the volunteers who dedicate so much of their time to serve on committees, to act as champions for important trail issues, to maintain local trails and coordinating trail events or programs that further the development of the region's trail network. 'The pandemic created a dramatic increase in demand for outdoor activities,' said Susan Christian, Discovery Routes chairperson, in a news release Friday. 'We know that trails are powerful tools for individuals to improve mental, physical and emotional health and want to recognize and celebrate the countless volunteers in communities across the north who keep the trails we all love open and safe for all to enjoy.' Officials with the organization say they hope the program will inspire more people to get involved with their local trails. On June 29, the program honoured long-time Powassan trail volunteer Gerry Giesler as a 'champion,' recognizing him for more than 16 years of service to area trails. Gerry Giesler Gerry Giesler was named a 'trail champion' at a walk on the Pine Trails network on June 29/23. (Supplied/Discovery Routes) Giesler was instrumental in improving paddling access to the South River Water Trail by successfully getting portage trails established around a number of hydro dams between Trout Creek and Powassan, said officials. He volunteers with the Powassan Recreation Committee and has been involved in the Pines Trails network for a number of years. When asked why he volunteers, Giesler said it is exciting to see years of planning take shape and new trails and water access set up in the region – like at Love Lake in Trout Creek. 'I've always been an outdoors person and liked doing outdoor stuff,' he said in the news release. 'What it boils down to is I like sharing my knowledge and making sure other people can get to enjoy the outdoors, too.' Volunters Pine Trails network walk Area volunteers walked the Pine Trails network on Thursday to celebrate local 'trail champion' Gerry Giesler. (Supplied/Discovery Routes) 'On behalf of the Municipality of Powassan we thank Gerry for many hours of dedication to trails and recreation in our community,' said Powassan Mayor Peter McIsaac, who was in attendance at Thursday's walk. For more information about Discovery Routes, visit their website or Facebook page.
