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On May 12, Comor – Go Play Outside, BC’s newest full service bike shops, presents VanFondo, a new ride in support of Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. VanFondo is a group social ride for bike-minded individuals to ride an escorted two hour street course with cycling celebrities, enthusiasts, and athletes. This casual, social ride and get together will bring together the cycling community.

[Photo credit: It's Snow Wonder on Flickr]

This is not a race event, and entry is by a minimum $10 donation to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. Canuck Place provides specialized pediatric palliative care for children living with a life-threatening illness and support for their families throughout BC. Your donation will not only help the hospice, but will include post-ride snacks, refreshments, cycling information clinics and activities provided by the ‘best brands in the industry’.

The event is described as “a gorgeous, two hour escorted scenic group ride through beautiful Vancouver.” The guide will lead riders through Downtown Vancouver and East Vancouver, across the city to UBC and back through the Kitsilano corridor.

Participants are welcome and encouraged to bring their road bikes, commuter/hybrid models, and mountain bikes (especially 29′ers).

A couple of things to know:

Can I register on the day of the event?
Absolutely. VanFondo will accept donations and registration on site on event day.

Can I bring my children?
It is not recommended to bring small children to this event. However, if your child is 12 years or older, and is capable of riding at speeds of 20 kph for a two hour duration, they are more than welcome to join.

What do I need to bring?
You, your bike, and a helmet. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

VanFondo
Date: May 12, Start corral opens at 7:30 am; event starts at 8:30 am (expected finish at 11:30 am)
Venue: Event start/finish is the Molson Brewery parking lot.
Cost: Minimum $10 donation to benefit Canuck Place Children’s Hospice
Note: Limited parking available at meters and paid parking lots, Comor and Pacific Boarder parking lots, and Granville Island

Event package pickup day is Friday, May 11, noon to 9 pm at Comor’s 4th and Burrard location. Check VanFondo’s Twitter feed for more information.