Why We Ride
Every rider has a reason. A person, a moment, a diagnosis, a team, a sense of belonging, or a desire to give back.
Why We Ride is a space to share those stories. These experiences connect us to one another and to the purpose behind Gran Fondo Lake Huron. They remind us why fundraising matters and how community support strengthens care close to home.
If you have a story to share, we invite you to submit it. Your experience may inspire someone else to ride, volunteer, fundraise, or support local healthcare in a meaningful way.
2026
A Ride Worth Taking – Allison’s Story
“What started as a simple way to find myself again has become so much more, a community, a purpose, and a ride worth taking.”
That’s how Allison describes her journey with Gran Fondo Lake Huron.
After becoming a mom, a few quiet rides on a bike slowly grew into something much bigger, joining the event, building a team, stepping into leadership, and now helping shape the future of local healthcare through her role with the Foundation.
It’s a reminder that this ride meets you where you are, and can take you somewhere you never expected.
Click below to read the rest of Allison’s story.
A Ride Worth Taking - Allison's Story
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.
2025 | Sue and Jim Caley
Sue and Jim Caley, known in the community as The Brady Bunch, served as Gran Fondo Lake Huron ambassadors in 2025. In a powerful video, they share the deeply personal reason behind their ride and why this event matters to them.
Their story reflects how Gran Fondo Lake Huron brings people together to honour loved ones, support our hospital, and contribute to care that reaches patients and families across the community.
Special thank you to The Walker House for sponsoring this community engagement video.
2023 | Finding Community on Two Wheels
What started as a move from Peterborough to Port Elgin turned into an unexpected passion for gravel riding and a deep connection to Gran Fondo Lake Huron.
New to long distance cycling, Mark Kirton took on a 110 km route just two months after arriving in Bruce County. Not only did he finish, he discovered a love for the ride, the scenery, and the sense of belonging that comes with riding alongside others.
That experience grew into something bigger. In 2023, more than 25 colleagues from Westinghouse rode together across multiple routes, celebrating teamwork, camaraderie, and shared purpose. For this group, Gran Fondo Lake Huron became a highlight of the year and a way to build community, both inside and outside the workplace.
2023 | Laura’s Story
If resilience had a face, it would look a lot like Laura.
Once active and healthy, Laura found herself navigating an unexpected health journey that began with a serious diagnosis and complex neurosurgery. During her hospital stay, the care she received from the surgical and Neuro ICU teams left a lasting impression and inspired her to pursue a second career in nursing.
Today, Laura is a nurse within the Brightshores Health System and a proud Gran Fondo Lake Huron rider. Diagnostic imaging played a critical role in her care, from initial diagnosis to ongoing monitoring, and continues to be essential to her health.
Laura rides to give back to the system that supported her and to help ensure others have access to the same care when they need it. She brings a positive outlook, determination, and a deep appreciation for the healthcare teams who make a difference every day.
Why We Ride Story Submission Form
Thank you for taking the time to share your story. Personal stories help people understand why this ride matters and how community support strengthens care close to home. Every “why” is different, and every “why” belongs here.
Please share as much or as little as you are comfortable with. You choose how your story and photos may be used.
Please fill in the fields below and hit the SUBMIT button to send your story.
