bike to the beach frequently asked questions
What is Bike to the Beach?
Bike to the Beach is an annual fundraising group bike ride from Winnipeg to Lake Winnipeg’s Victoria Beach in support of LWF.
Do I need to pre-register to participate in the ride?
You will be considered registered once you’ve (1) set up your personal fundraising page on the CanadaHelps Bike to the Beach 2024 online campaign page and (2) provided organizers with all required information including signed waivers. *Please note, we have a limited number of rider spots available. Cyclists interested in participating will first require approval from organizers. Additional applicants will be placed on a waiting list.*
Is there a fee to register?
All riders are to raise (or personally contribute) a minimum of $500 in donations to LWF in order to participate in Bike to the Beach, with an expectation that each participating rider will likely raise more through their fundraising efforts. We are offering fundraising incentives and encourage you to be ambitious as you reach out to your networks to solicit support for your efforts and a healthy Lake Winnipeg!
Is this a race? Will I be timed?
No, Bike to the Beach is simply a group ride. However, participating riders should be able to keep up with the group. Participating cyclists will need to be able to maintain a pace of at least 20 - 30 km/h for approximately three hours.
Is there a recommended fitness level for participating riders?
Yes – we are recommending participating riders have a moderate-to-high level of physical fitness. You should be able to ride the distance that you’re committing to. All cyclists are expected to ride within their abilities and self-select out of any situation that they do not feel comfortable with.
Can minors participate in the ride?
No. Riders must be at least 18 years old to participate in Bike to the Beach 2024.
What gear do I need to participate?
Participants must provide their own road bike, helmet, water bottle, spare tube, phone, some money (or a credit card) and appropriate riding clothing/supplies for the day (e.g. sunscreen, raingear). Cyclists without helmets will not be able to participate. Cyclists should not use ear phones, air pods or any other distracting device while riding.
When and where does the ride start and finish?
Bike to the Beach 2024 will start at 7:30 a.m. sharp on Friday, Aug. 9, at Mountain Bean Coffee, 2001 Henderson Hwy. LWF staff will be on site at 6:45 a.m. to welcome all riders. The ride will finish outside on the Village Green in Victoria Beach. Depending on weather and/or other factors, start and finish locations may change.
How long is the route?
Bike to the Beach 2024 will include two different route lengths, ranging in distance from approx. 70 km to approx. 133 km. Three designated rest stops will be set up along the full route. Ride organizers will be updating all participants with additional route details closer to the ride. Regardless of where they plan to start, all riders will be welcome to attend the morning Bike to the Beach launch for coffee, camaraderie and to see the group off.
What happens if I can’t finish the ride?
Each rider is responsible for coordinating a contingency pickup option for themselves from family or friends, and should have a phone with them should they need to call for assistance during the event. If a rider is in between one of the designated rest stops and can’t continue, they should alert organizers, then call their prearranged contact to pick them up.
Will there be cars on the roads that participants will be riding on?
Yes – Bike to the Beach will take place on active roads/highways, and ride organizers do not have the authority to force vehicles to stop. All riders are expected to ensure it is safe to proceed, and to take measures to stay safe: keep your head up at all times. All riders are also required to wear helmets while riding, warming up and cooling down.
Will refreshments be provided?
Water and light refreshments will be provided at the designated rest stops along the route. Riders are to provide their own water bottles. Two rest stops have a store close by if riders wish to make a purchase. Riders should plan to bring their own food should they have special dietary requirements.
Cancellation and rain delays:
Bike to the Beach will proceed as long as it is safe to do so; within reason, this includes riding in rain and wind. Organizers will be in contact with all riders prior to the event. In the event of dangerous conditions (eg: lightening), the ride will be cancelled.
Each rider is responsible for coordinating a contingency pickup option for themselves from family or friends, and should have a phone with them should they need to call for assistance during the event. In the event of a change in the weather that affects the riders’ ability to participate, riders should call their prearranged contact to pick them up.
How are participants getting back to Winnipeg once the ride is complete?
Each rider is responsible for their own transportation – both to the start of the ride and home from the end of the ride.
Are charitable receipts provided for donations to Bike to the Beach?
Yes. CanadaHelps automatically generates and emails charitable receipts for all donations made through the Bike to the Beach 2024 online campaign page or through a rider’s personal fundraising page. LWF provides charitable receipts for donations of $20 or more made directly to the foundation.
How are Bike the Beach proceeds being used?
All proceeds for the ride will be donated to LWF to support ongoing evidence-based advocacy to reduce phosphorus loading to Lake Winnipeg. Visit our advocacy web page to learn more about current campaigns.
Can I support Bike to the Beach without participating in the ride?
Absolutely! You can support the ride by donating to the ride itself or to an individual rider, or by becoming an event sponsor. You can also help spread the word about Bike to the Beach with your networks and through social media.
Volunteer opportunities are also available. If you’re interested in volunteering on the day of the event, please contact the 2024 ride organizers.