Why We Ride

For Shawflex, Gran Fondo Lake Huron presented by Bruce Power and Suppliers has always been about more than cycling.
As a longtime Sponsor, Shawflex has watched the event grow from a community ride into one of the region’s most impactful fundraising events, helping raise more than $2.2 million for local healthcare.

But their involvement goes far beyond sponsorship.

Year after year, Shawflex employees, family members, and friends fill the routes, riding together in support of the Saugeen Shores Hospital Foundation and the patients who rely on local healthcare services.

“Community is at the heart of everything we do,” says the Shawflex team. “Coming back to Gran Fondo Lake Huron each year is about supporting local healthcare and making a real difference close to home.”
That commitment has helped grow a team culture that extends well beyond the workplace. Riders of all experience levels take part, from first-time participants looking to challenge themselves to seasoned cyclists returning for another year.

The team points to the scenic Lake Huron routes, the welcoming atmosphere, and the sense of accomplishment at the finish line as some of the reasons riders keep coming back.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to ride alongside colleagues, friends, and even family members. The shared accomplishment at the finish line, rain or shine, is something special.”

As a Platinum Sponsor, Shawflex sees its role as more than financial support. Sponsorship allows the company to amplify the impact through participation, advocacy, and community leadership.

“Being a sponsor reflects our commitment to investing in the communities where we live and work. It aligns with our values of partnership, long-term thinking, and building strong, resilient communities.”

Over the years, that collective effort has translated into meaningful results for local healthcare. Gran Fondo Lake Huron participants, sponsors, volunteers, and donors have helped fund projects including a CT scanner for Brightshores Southampton Hospital, $500,000 toward a new mammography suite, and support for mental health and wellness services throughout the region.

“The growth has been remarkable and inspiring. It’s meaningful to know that every pedal stroke contributes to improving healthcare access for families in our region.”

For anyone considering participating for the first time, Shawflex has a simple message:

“Take the chance. It’s far more than just a bike ride. Whether you ride 30 km or 110 km, you’ll leave with a real sense of accomplishment, new connections, and the feeling that you were part of something meaningful.”

As Gran Fondo Lake Huron continues to grow, Shawflex remains proud to be part of the journey, helping build healthier communities one ride at a time.

I never expected a bicycle to change the course of my life, but after the birth of my second daughter in 2021, I found myself searching for a way to reclaim a bit of balance, something that was just for me. That’s when I started biking. What began as short, stolen moments of quiet on two wheels slowly grew into a passion.

By 2022, a friend and I decided to take a leap and register for the Gran Fondo. We didn’t know what to expect, but the energy of the event, the supportive riders, and the feeling of crossing that finish line hooked us instantly. The following year, in 2023, I convinced my husband to join me, eager to share the experience that had inspired me so much.

Then came 2024, when Aecon entered a team in the ride. I joined without hesitation, excited to take on the challenge alongside my coworkers. That year’s ride left me so energized that when I later saw a call for volunteers to help plan the 2025 event, I applied immediately, and to my delight, I was accepted.

By 2025, I had stepped into the role of one of Aecon’s co-chairs for planning our team. It was an incredible experience. Not only were we proud sponsors of the ride, but we rallied an amazing group of 21 riders. One of my favourite moments was standing in front of the brand new 50 km group and giving the official countdown speech, something I never imagined doing when I first climbed onto a bike years earlier.
After the 2025 ride wrapped up, another opportunity appeared: an open position on the Board of Directors for the Saugeen Shores Hospital Foundation. Encouraged by my growing connection to one of their events and its impact on local healthcare, I applied. Being accepted was an honour, and I’m grateful every day for the chance to help support the community in a meaningful way.

Now, as I look ahead to the 2026 ride, I’m excited to continue building Aecon’s team: fostering camaraderie, supporting local healthcare, and discovering where this incredible journey will take me next. What started as a simple way to find myself again has become so much more: a community, a purpose, and a ride worth taking.