Blog  May 13, 2013

Guest blog: Why I’ll be Riding the Ravines with Evergreen again this June

L: Erin Ridout and Brian Cheverie give thumbs up along the trail (Photo: Mike Derblich)
R: Still happy while taking a break at the Cherry Beach rest stop (Photo: Anthony Toderian)

By Erin Ridout

On Sunday, June 17, 2012, two friends and I embarked on a bike journey heading to Evergreen’s Ride the Ravines to participate in their first annual 25-km ride to raise money and support for active city living. The morning started at the Brick Works, where we joined dozens of other biking enthusiasts of all ages to prep for the ride. Several fathers were there to celebrate Father’s Day with their families and to share the experience of riding some of Toronto’s most scenic bike paths that interweave this beautiful city of ours.

Upon our arrival we sipped on fresh brewed coffee while we registered and picked up our ride kits, including an awesome T-shirt and trail map showing us the route for the ride. The DIY bike repairs tent staffed with experts helped us to check our tire pressure and do a few last-minute gear checks before we started off for the day. The spontaneous chorus of bike bells from all of the riders indicated we were all set to begin the ride.

As we began our route toward the interior bike paths along the Don River, we were safely ushered by police cyclists along the way. Our route took us from the Brick Works, down to the Beaches and back along the path at Cherry Beach. Several pit stops were located on the route to provide us with drinks and snacks, and a chance to relax and chat with other riders.

Erin (centre) and friends, Brian Cheverie (left) and Anthony Toderian (right), enjoy a well-deserved beer in Koerner Gardens at the Bikes, BBQ & Beer after-party (Photo: Erin Ridout)

Back at Evergreen Brick Works, we were greeted with delicious celebration cupcakes and the after-party, which featured live bands playing different styles of music while we sat on benches and soaked in the sun. Several food stands were available serving up delicious snacks with everything from curry to paella, and best of all—ice-cold beer!

Overall, the experience was a lasting one. We had an amazing time and I’m so excited to enjoy the day again this year with even more friends and family members so that I can help share the adventure of riding the ravines. Thank you, Evergreen!

Thanks very much to Erin for sharing her experience of last year’s Ride. We look forward to pedaling with her again this coming June 16. Join us—register today!

To sponsor Erin or any other riders, and to learn more about the event, check out our web pages at evergreen.ca/ridetheravines. See you on the trail!