Corn Hill – On July 24th, the Corn Hill region’s rural bicycling opportunities were shared with the 100 people who participated in the Corn Hill Bicycle Festival. The festival attracted everyone from casual riders to avid cyclist and yes-even non-cyclists came and participated in workshops.
During the day, seven rides left from the festival’s centre, the Corn Hill Community Hall. The routes covered various distances from 5 to 30 kilometres and there was even a 100 km ride. At the hall, there were workshops going on all day with important “How To” lessons on proper gearing, fix a flat tire, cycle safely and maintain your bike. There was also a local history talk, kids bicycle skills course, and Canada cycling tour slide-show. The day was closed with a memorial ride for Hans Lammens, a local cyclist who passed away this spring.
The Corn Hill Bicycle Festival was the first recreational cycling event of its kind in New Brunswick. All in all it was a fantastic day, with good weather, great volunteer help, and lots of smiling faces. The biggest hit of the day was the incredible BBQ lunch prepared for the crowd.
Lastly, not only was a new festival introduced to the area but the Corn Hill Cycling Routes Guide was also unveiled. The guide contains a map, which highlights some of the best routes around Corn Hill, and provides cyclists with important local information.
The Corn Hill Bicycle Festival is a collaborative effort of the Corn Hill Women’s Institute, and local cyclists. The key sponsor of the festival and bike map is Fundy Model Forest. The festival was supported by the NB Department for Wellness, Culture and Sport, Outdoor Elements, and local businesses. Please visit the Corn Hill Bicycle website for a complete list of sponsors and photos of the day.