Press release
(For immediate release)

(CLARE, NS - CANADA): Registration for the sixth edition of the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie, to be held on Sunday September 10, 2023, after a three-year hiatus, is in full swing.

The Gran Fondo has quickly grown to become a must-attend cycling and cultural experience. As Atlantic Canada's largest cycling event, the unparalleled community spirit, breathtaking ocean views and celebratory lobster dinner have captured the hearts of cyclists from around the world. The event welcomed 992 cyclists in 2019, from as far away as Alaska and Australia. As of late June, there were nearly 500 registrations, 1/3 of them originating from outside the province.

Offering three exhilarating rides on low-traffic roads, the Gran Fondo appeals to recreational riders of all skill levels, as well as to the avid racer. Experienced riders will be challenged by our slightly modified 128 km Gran route, adding the scenic Bas-de-la-Rivière coastal loop, while intermediate and novice cyclists may prefer the shorter 67 km Medio or 35 km Piccolo rides. Riders will navigate rolling inland roads along lakes and rivers, passing by towering wooden churches along the panoramic coastal route that hugs beautiful St. Mary’s Bay. E-bikes are also permitted to ride in the 67 km and 35 km rides.

The community spirit is off the charts: hundreds of local residents roll out the welcome mat and enthusiastically cheer on cyclists from the roadside, waving Acadian flags and banging pots and pans. Around 150 local volunteers will be recruited to ensure the logistical success of the event.

Due to anticipated renovation work of the Clare Veterans Centre, the 2023 event will be held at Université Sainte-Anne (1695 Highway 1, Church Point). Dinner is included and consists of a vegetarian option, barbecued pork or the perennial favourite, fresh lobster in its shell. On Saturday, riders are invited to a social event for a taste of Acadian culture.

Registration costs CAN$129 and includes an event jersey, post-race meal, swag bag, chip timing, rest stops and entertainment along the route. Participants registered before July 15 will receive a nautical-themed jersey for the event's sixth anniversary.

“Strong registration numbers are testimony to the appeal of this event. We can’t wait to see everyone again, as well as hundreds participating for the first time,” stated Larry Peach, Marketing Coordinator for Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie.

For more information and to register online, visit the Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie website

Watch our 2023 promo video

Media contact:

Larry Peach
Tourism Manager, Municipality of Clare
902-769-8555, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Volunteer contact:

Tori Comeau
Recreation Manager, Municipality of Clare
902-778-2390, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Sponsorship contact:

Reanne Flynn
Community Development Officer, Municipality of Clare
902-769-2031, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.