GranFondo rolls through Langley for charity Sunday

More than 1,600 cyclists will be rolling through Langley Township for the Valley GranFondo ride, with routes from the most experienced bikers to families, all supporting local charities. The annual cycling event, which will be starting and finishing at Aldergrove’s Eagle Acres Dairy Farm on Sunday, June 7, has grown in recent years since returning after the pandemic in 2023. Race organizer Susie Ernsting said the event welcomes cyclists of varying experience levels while focusing on safety and an organized experience on the routes. There

are four route options: the 125-kilometre GranFondo, 85-km MedioFondo, 50-km PrestoFondo, and 20-km FamilyFondo. “Rider safety is a top priority, with professional traffic management teams, support from the RCMP and Abbotsford Police Department, medical personnel, motorcycles, and support vehicles stationed throughout the course,” outlined Ernsting. Along the route, cyclists will have access to aid stations with water, nutrition, or time to rest throughout the countryside. In recent years, the ride has grown, becoming a community gathering attracting riders outside the Fraser Valley region. “Organizers are

also excited to see continued growth in female participation, reflecting the event’s increasingly inclusive and community-focused atmosphere,” said Ernsting. The event supprots several charitable organizations including the BC Cancer Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley, HUB Cycling, Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Participants can choose to fundraise for one of the partnered organizations during registration. In its first year in 2012, the event raised more than $63,000. Organizers are hoping to build on that amount this year. Last year, the event

raised more than $41,000 for charity. Keeping the GranFondo alive and running involves more than 100 volunteers throughout the day. Some handle the rider check-ins, and package pickups, while others staff aid stations and distribute medals at the finish line. “Volunteers play an essential role in creating a safe and memorable experience for every participant,” shared Ernsting. “Organizers are incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and dedication of the volunteer team, whose energy helps showcase the welcoming spirit of the Fraser Valley community.” Volunteer registration remains

open through the event website. After crossing the finish line, riders will gather at the dairy farm for a public festival running from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The celebration includes live music, local vendors, a beer garden, activities for families, and visits with the farm animals. “The finish line celebration at Eagle Acres Dairy Farm is one of the highlights of the day,” Ernsting said. “After earning their finisher medal, cyclists can enjoy a post-ride burger courtesy of Horse & Ryder Pub and a

refreshing beverage from Trading Post Brewing.” Road closures for the event will be in effect as temporary road closures and traffic delays throughout parts of Langley Township during the event. River Road will face intermittent closures between 240 Street to Mavis Avenue from 8 to 9:30 a.m., while 240 Street between River Road and Rawlison Crescent will be restricted to resident access only from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Drivers are asked to use alternate routes. The public encouraged to come out and cheer for

the riders along the route. Current registration rates are $319.82 for the 120-kilometre ride, $292.90 for the MedioFondo, $228.27 for the PrestoFondo, and $39.79 for the FamilyFondo. Youth ages 14 to 19 can register for any distance for $50. Registration closes June 1. People can find more information or register for the ride at valleygranfondo.com.

Valley GranFondo, Langley Township, Aldergrove, Eagle Acres Dairy Farm, charity cycling, BC Cancer Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley, HUB Cycling, Heart & Stroke Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Canada, RCMP, Abbotsford Police Department, River Road closures, 240 Street closures, Susie Ernsting, Horse & Ryder Pub, Trading Post Brewing