2018 Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
The Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride is a fun, challenging and unique bicycle ride through the beautiful Comox Valley. Whatever your ability we have a ride you’ll enjoy, routes include a 25km, 50km or 100km ride. There will also be a 6km family loop that allows riders of all ages to cycle together regardless of ability. For little ones not yet ready for the road we will be hosting a little wheelers activity.
Whatever you choose, we hope you’ll bring your family and friends and come out to have some fun.
All proceeds from this event will benefit You Are Not Alone (YANA).
Highlights:
- Routes of varying distances taking in the stunning scenery of the Comox Valley
- Post-ride lunch
- Free t-shirt for all participants registered on or before July 16th
- Draw prizes
- Fueling stations
- Congratulatory medal for all participants
- DJ-enhanced celebration in the park thanks to AudioXcellence
- Live entertainment by the Jilli Martini Trio
- Discounts at Simon’s Cycles for all participants
- Two training ride opportunities: July 14 & July 21
- Support on all routes
About YANA
YANA (You Are Not Alone) is a registered charity available to Comox Valley families who need to travel for the medical care of a child under 19 or a pregnant mother. YANA offers accommodation and provides funding to help with expenses while families are away from home.
YANA was founded in 1986 by Sandra Williams after the financial and emotional devastation resulting from her daughter’s diagnosis of congenital heart failure and lengthy medical treatment in Vancouver. Sandra and her family committed to building an organization that ensured Comox Valley families would have the support of their community during these stressful circumstances.
YANA is proud to be the steward of Sandra’s legacy and assists with over 400 medical trips each year, reaching hundreds of children and families.
Please join us in this ride for Comox Valley families.
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
100 km Loop Closed
Join Simon's Cycles for a 100 km Sunday bike ride through the Comox Valley while fundraising for YANA. Riders should be capable of completing route in 6 hours. Registration will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17 or until such time as 600 total cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day.
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$60.00Feb. 28 - Aug. 17
50 km Loop Closed
Join Simon's Cycles for a 50 km Sunday bike ride through the Comox Valley while fundraising for YANA. Riders should be capable of completing route in 4 hours. Registration will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17 or until such time as 600 total cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day.
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$60.00Feb. 28 - Aug. 17
25 km Loop Closed
Join Simon's Cycles for a 25 km Sunday bike ride through the Comox Valley while fundraising for YANA. Riders should be capable of completing route in 2 hours. Registration will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17 or until such time as 600 total cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day.
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$60.00Feb. 28 - Aug. 17
Student Discount Price Closed
Join Simon's Cycles for a Sunday bike ride through the Comox Valley while fundraising for YANA. The student rate applies to post-secondary students and school-aged children interested in the 25, 50 or 100 km routes. Registration will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17 or until such time as 600 total cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day.
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$25.00Feb. 28 - Aug. 17
6 km Family Loop Closed
Bring the whole family out to support YANA in this 6 km loop. Family riders will be offered a special activity at the two playground stops along the route for some added fun. The $15 fee is per family member. Registration will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17 or until such time as 600 total cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day.
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$15.00Feb. 28 - Aug. 17
Registration Deadline
The Simon's Cycles YANA Ride registration site will be open until 11:59pm Friday, August 17th OR until such time as 600 cyclists have registered. No registration will be accepted on ride day. Transfers are permitted until 11:59pm Tuesday, August 14th. Route changes can be accommodated at the check-in area, but pay close attention to the event schedule as different routes leave at different times.
Routes
All routes are subject to change. Municipal road work may require alternative routing. Routes are visible via MapMyRide links or as images below.
2018-100km Route via MapMyRide
2018-6km Family Route via MapMyRide
Event Schedule
100km Ride:
Check-in 8:00 – 8:30 am, Ride Briefing 8:40 am, Ride starts 9:00 am
50km Ride:
Check-in 9:00 – 9:30 am, Ride Briefing 9:40 am, Ride starts 10:00 am
25km Ride:
Check-in 10:00 – 10:30 am, Ride Briefing 10:40 am, Ride starts 11:00 am
Family Ride:
Check-in 10:30 – 11:00 am, Ride Briefing 11:10 am, Ride starts 11:30 am
Lunch
Starts 12:00 pm
Live Music: Jilli Martini Trio
12:45 - 1:30 pm
Little Wheelers Event (4 and under)
Check-in and decorating ride bibs 1:00 – 1:20 pm, Ride Briefing 1:20 pm, Ride starts 1:30 pm
Draw Prizes
Ongoing, special prize draws at 1:45 pm
Live Music: Jilli Martini Trio
2:10 - 2:40 pm
Air Canada Foundation Fundraising
All cyclists are eligible to participate in the Air Canada Foundation Fundraising Challenge! For every $100 raised in pledges and donations, riders are entered into a draw to win two return tickets for travel to any Air Canada scheduled destination in North America (including Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and select sun destinations), a prize valued at $2,800. Not only will you be helping local families in a big way through your fundraising, but you also have a great chance to win an awesome prize!
Rules:
1. Riders must be registered in the 2018 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride to participate in the fundraising challenge.
2. Riders will be automatically entered into the draw each time they raise $100 in pledges/donations through the on-line Race Roster site up to 11:59pm Friday, August 17, 2018.
3. A donation made during a registration transaction counts toward this challenge, but registration fees do not. Please assign the donation as a pledge toward your own ride.
4. Riders who are collecting pledges and donations off-line will need to have all funds to the YANA office by 2:00pm Thursday, August 16, 2018 to be entered into the draw. Remember YANA needs full names and addresses of donors who pledge $20 or more in order to issue tax receipts. Pledge sheet available here: https://www.yanacomoxvalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/YANA.PLEDGE-FORM.pdf
5. The draw will take place at 1:45pm on Sunday, August 19, 2018 from the main stage at Marina Park. The prize will be held for the winning participant and the winner informed by telephone if he/she is not present.
6. If a child 18 years or younger wins, the prize may be claimed by the parent or guardian listed on his/her ride waiver.
Support for Cyclists
Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride has fueling stations throughout the various routes. Expect to find fruit, water and snacks as well as basic first aid. Bathrooms are available at all fueling stations.
Fueling stations for the 100km ride include:
- Kin Beach Park
- Merville Road Store
- Blue Moon Estate Winery
- Cumberland
Fueling stations for the 50km ride include:
- Kin Beach Park
- Merville Road Store
Fueling station for the 25km ride:
- Kin Beach Park
Fueling station for the 6km family ride:
- Comox Recreation Play Park
On your return to Marina Park you will find food and entertainment. There will be lunch for all cyclists and volunteers.
We will have support vehicles and riding mechanics on routes in case you are in need of bike support.
Your bib number will feature a telephone number in case you need bicycle support at any time. 911 for emergencies.
Awards
All cyclists will receive a congratulatory medal at Marina Park. Little Wheelers will receive something unique to celebrate their participation.
Ride Kits
Ride kits may be collected on Sunday, August 19 from 8:00 am until 11:30 am at the registration area. We suggest you collect yours during your check-in period, see event schedule above for timing. We will have a system set up at the check-in area to hold items if necessary.
Ride kits include:
- Map of the ride
- Your bib number
- A shirt if you register on or before July 16
- Discount card for Simon's Cycles
- A small snack
Lots of Prizes
All participants will be automatically entered in a draw to win prizes donated by Simon's Cycles and their suppliers. Look for signs showing draw prize winners. There are dozens of prizes including a grand prize draw to win a $500 Simon's Cycles gift certificate.
Souvenir Shirt For Early Registrants
All partcipants who have registered on or before July 16th are getting a free souvenir t-shirt thanks to Simon's Cycles YANA Ride sponsor, Dr. Conradi.
Souvenir Bike Bell
Let them hear you coming while you ride in the 2018 Simon's Cycles YANA Ride. For only $10 add one to your order while you are registering and we will have it in your ride kit the morning of the ride. They will also be on sale at the event. But do you really want to risk them selling out and miss your chance?
Volunteer
As with all great events, The Simon's Cycles YANA Ride is made spectacular by the participants and volunteers. Please email volunteer@yanacomoxvalley.com or call 250-871-0343 if you would like to volunteer. Volunteers are eligible to win draw prizes and treated to lunch, beverages and snacks. Volunteers make this event possible and YANA is incredibly grateful for the volunteer spirit surrounding this event! Visit https://www.yanacomoxvalley.com/volunteer/ for more information.
Rules and Guidelines
1) This is not a race, but rather a self-paced ride.
2) Helmets are mandatory. An ASTM, ANSI or SNELL approved helmet is required. Cyclists must wear a certified cycling helmet with the chinstrap buckled at all times while riding on the course.
3) Carry I.D. It is recommended that all participants carry personal ID and health card in case of emergency.
4) Obey all traffic laws. All cyclists are personally responsible for obeying all traffic laws; this includes traffic lights and stop signs.
5) Emergency vehicles always have the right of way. If a rider encounters an emergency vehicle, the rider is to give way to the emergency vehicle by pulling over, stopping and dismounting.
6) Ride safely. Unless passing another rider, please ride on the right side of the lane as far as possible. Before passing another rider, announce yourself by the words “passing on the left” and ensure there is no vehicular traffic approaching from either direction. If you choose to stop while on the route, signal to the riders behind and pull over safely. Ride with your head up and in single file whenever possible. Never overlap your wheels with another cyclist. Please be aware there may be obstacles on the course. You are responsible for your own safety.
7) Maintain control and speed of your bike, even going downhill. Know your limits.
8) Ride within the designated route.
9) Display your event number. All registered cyclists must wear their event number according to instructions.
10) Acceptable bicycles. Electrically pedal assisted cycles (EPAC), hand cycles, wheelchairs, chariots, trail-a bikes, training wheel bikes, run bikes and tandems will be allowed. Please be aware that due to issues of size it may not be possible to transport these bicycles should assistance be required.
11) Use of ipods, MP3 players, headphones, or cell phones is not recommended while riding.
12) Event cancellation. The race directors and local law enforcement have the authority to modify or cancel the event in the event of unsafe conditions. The race directors reserve the right to modify, postpone, shorten or re-route the event at any time either on their own judgment or if instructed by local law enforcement personnel. Entry fees are not refundable.
13) Rain or shine. This event will proceed in the event of rain so please come prepared.
14) Event cut-off time. Any participant on the course after 2:30pm will be offered transport to the finishing area. Those who do not accept transport will be unsupported for the remainder of the ride.
15) Minor Participants. All Minor Participants must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian and submitted at the time of ride check-in. Parents/guardians are solely and entirely responsible for the supervision, safety and well being of any Minor Participant before, during and after the Cycling Event.
16) No littering or public urination.
17) Be respectful of other riders and help others when needed.
18) Please obey traffic management personnel, volunteers and course marshals.
19) Thank the volunteers. Without volunteers this event would not be possible. We value our dedicated volunteers and want to ensure that they have a great time. Abuse of any volunteer will not be tolerated. Please thank them for helping make your day a successful one.
Gratitude
Pre Event Training Rides
JULY 14, 9:00 am start from the shop 25k route led by the Specialized Women's Ambassador Christine Paquette and Kelly Mackenzie of Comox Valley Bella Bicicletta ...a female focused ride for moms, daughters, grannies, girlfriends, aunties and sisters...
JULY 21, 9:00 am start from the shop 50k route led by Perry and Helen Feltham
YANA Ride History
2008 - 2011 - YANA Century
What started out as a challenge to road riding enthusiasts in 2008 shaped into something much more powerful and beneficial. Originally, the goal of The Century Ride was to complete a 100 mile (or 160km) road ride throughout the Comox Valley. Then ride coordinator Les Black of Black's Cycle decided that perhaps those who ride for their own health and wellness might be able to support those who are preoccupied with the critical health of someone they love. This extra challenge was woven into the century ride. Can you ride 100 miles? Can you challenge yourself? There were no trophies awaiting at the finish line, nor were there points for competitors or prizes for age categories. But there were cycling enthusiasts seeking a challenging ride both to keep fit and to meet other riders who enjoy similar feats.
We are all grateful for the years of cycling, fundraising and organizing the Black's Cycle family have contributed.
2013 - Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
In 2013 Simon’s Cycles joined YANA to bring back a cycling fundraiser to support Comox Valley families. The focus was fun and fitness for the whole family.
The Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride took place on Sunday August 17, 2013 at Comox Marina Park. 271 cyclists and dozens of volunteers brought the event to life and helped raise over $28,000. All of the funds raised went directly to Comox Valley families in need, thanks to the support from our gracious sponsors.
There were cyclists of all ages and abilities. Some riders challenged themselves to a 100km, 50km, or 25km routes, riders experienced Comox Valley’s beauty, including beaches, forests, farms, rural and urban roads. With the opportunity to taste some local treats along the way.
Alex Dunae, 2013 YANA Ride Participant recalls, “I signed up for the YANA 50km ride on a whim and immediately regretted committing myself so publicly to the longest ride of my life. But with friends and family committing cash, riding was the only option. And so I rode. 49kms later I climbed Comox Hill and was grinning as I cruised to the finish. I’ll definitely be back for 2014.”
Other cyclists challenged their whole family with a 5km family loop. A run bike race provided a way for the youngest of YANA’s supporters to get involved which added a wonderful enthusiasm to the day.
2014 - Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
The 2014 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride took place on Sunday August 17 at Comox Marina Park.
411 cyclists and 100 volunteers brought the event to life and helped raise over $39,000. All of the funds raised went directly to Comox Valley families in need, thanks to the support of gracious sponsors who covered event expenses.
Riders ranged from 1 to 78 years in age and chose to ride 100km, 50km, 25km or 5km in support of YANA. Most popular was the family ride which was supported by 141 riders. Many participants also chose to fundraise for YANA, the top fundraiser generated over $2,500 in pledges.
Patti Fletcher of Simon’s Cycles hoped that the event would raise $32,000, the amount required to fund 5 months of accommodation expenses for YANA families. We are proud that the community helped us exceed this goal and delighted with the community spirit that surrounded the 2014 event.
2015 - Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
The 2015 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride took place on Sunday August 16 at Comox Marina Park.
525 cyclists and 145 volunteers brought the event to life and helped raise over $44,000. All of the funds raised went directly to Comox Valley families in need, thanks to the support of gracious sponsors who covered event expenses.
Riders ranged from 1 to 79 years in age and chose to ride 100km, 50km, 25km or 5km in support of YANA. Most popular was the family ride which was supported by 149 riders.
YANA’s Executive Director, Marcie Dumais, is overwhelmed by the community support, “I love this community. It never ceases to amaze me how we work together to support our own. People of all ages get behind our ride in so many ways, we have our partners at Simon’s Cycles, participants, sponsors and volunteers all coming together to create one incredible event,”
2016 - Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
The 2016 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride took place on Sunday August 21 at Comox Marina Park.
A total of 600 riders took part in the 2016 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride on August 21 raising over $55,000 for local families. Participants were supported by over 150 enthusiastic volunteers. 45 business sponsors ensured event expenses were covered so that all dollars raised could go directly to local families. It was an incredible day of cycling and a wonderful example of the love that surrounds YANA.
Marcie Dumais — YANA's Executive Director was overwhelmed by the communities support. “There’s a feeling when that many people come together for something they all care about,” Dumais said. “Little passings have huge significance. For instance, running into a rider wearing a very, very special jersey. Or families that are out there riding for other families, and people that they care deeply about.”
“It’s an incredible privilege for Simon’s Cycles to be part of this event,” committee director Patti Fletcher said. “The community support is amazing. It’s a real honour to be a part of it…It exceeded our expectations in every way.”
2017 - Simon's Cycles YANA Ride
The 2017 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride took place on Sunday August 20 at Comox Marina Park.
A total of 593 riders took part in the 2017 Simon’s Cycles YANA Ride on August 20 raising over $61,000 for local families. Participants were supported by nearly 150 enthusiastic volunteers. 49 Ride sponsors ensured event expenses were covered so that all dollars raised could go directly to YANA programs. It was an incredible day of cycling and a wonderful example of the love that surrounds YANA.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Question: How do I go about collecting pledges and donations?
Answer: Each participant has a customizable pledge webpage through Race Roster. You can upload images and add text about why you're riding for YANA and/or why this cycling goal is important to you. Your webpage can be shared through social media or directly by email. If you prefer to collect cash or cheque pledges, please use a pledge sheet: https://www.yanacomoxvalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/YANA.PLEDGE-FORM.pdf. Contact YANA if you need assistance setting up your pledge webpage or for fundraising assistance; 250-871-0343 or info@yanacomoxvalley.com.
2) Question: Are registration fees eligible for tax receipts?
Answer: According to Canada Revenue Agency guidelines, registration fees are not eligible for tax receipts.
3) Question: Are pledges and donations eligible for tax receipts?
Answer: Yes and tax receipts are provided directly through Race Roster by email. The online pledge website will be available until August 30. Cash and cheque pledges can also be brought to the YANA office (102-2456 Rosewall Crescent) on Tuesdays or Thursdays 10-2pm or to Marina Park on ride day and tax receipts will be issued directly by YANA. Look for the Pledges & Donations station under the YANA tent. Full names and addresses of your donors are required for tax receipts to be issued.
4) Question: What is the minimum donation amount to receive a tax receipt?
Answer: Minimum donation amount for tax receipts is $20.
5) Question: Can I join a team after I've registered?
Answer: Yes, just email info@yanacomoxvalley.com and indicate your name and the team that you'd like to join.
6) Question: Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
Answer: Yes until August 14, 11:59pm. Transfers must be done through the Race Roster site. The size of the souvenir shirt will only be alterable if transfer is done before July 16, 11:59pm. There is a $1.95 transfer fee. Refunding and fee collection are handled through Race Roster.
7) Question: Can I change routes?
Answer: Yes, route changes can be made through Race Roster up until August 14, 11:59pm. There is a $1.95 transfer fee and all refunding or additional fees based on route selection are handled through Race Roster. After August 14, all route changes will be handled at the check-in area at Marina Park. Please look carefully at the event schedule so you arrive at the check-in area at the correct time for the route you want to be doing and inform check-in volunteers of the change. They will ensure you have the correct route map and you'll be on your way. If you originally registered for the $15 family loop and want to do a longer loop, please be ready to pay the difference in cash or cheque.
8) Question: Can ride kit items be held at the park while I'm cycling?
Answer: Yes, there will be a system for holding ride kit items. We do our best to secure these items, but they are being left at your own risk.
Event schedule
- Sun., August 19, 2018 9:00 a.m. - Start Time
Contact information
- Event contact
- Marcie Dumais
- info@yanacomoxvalley.com
- Phone
- +1 250-871-0343
- Website
- Visit website