The Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx cycling event will be coming through Summerland on July 8.
Volunteers are needed from about 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Summerland aid station at Memorial Park, the first station on the route.
Volunteers last year had fun pouring water and electrolyte liquids, handing out gels, directing the way and cheering on the riders.
Also needed are 10 foot by 10 foot tents.
Summerland Chamber will also provide a mobile Visitor Centre at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre for the Trade Show, promoting Summerland to the riders, their families and friends.
Contact the Summerland Chamber of Commerce if you can assist at any of the Granfondo activities.
The Summerland Rotary Club is taking on the responsibility of directional advisers during the race.
Over recent weeks, the roads in and around the South Okanagan have been awash with spandex as cyclists gear up for the second annual Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan (VFGFAMO).
Attracting more than 2,000 riders in 2011, the VFGFAMO gives cyclists of all abilities the chance to experience a large, organized ride without the competitive element of racing. It also has economic spinoffs for Okanagan communities.
Given the number of riders and fans and the average length of stay in the area, it is estimated the inaugural VFGFAMO generated more than $2 million in Penticton alone in 2011.
“Having an event like the Valley First Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan in our backyard is fantastic,” says Valley First president, Paulette Rennie.
“As the title sponsor, Valley First is proud to play its part in showcasing our little slice of paradise, supporting the local community and attracting such tremendous economic benefits to the region. Last year was a great success; we’re expecting this year’s event to be even better.”
With less than three weeks left until riders hit the road, training is peaking for many VFGFAMO participants.
Popular in Europe, granfondo events allow riders to experience the rigours of a full pro-level race with the same support enjoyed by professional cyclists.
However, the emphasis is not only on competition but also on participation.
Olympic medalist, Tour de France veteran and the driving force behind the VFGFAMO, Axel Merckx, is looking forward to the second staging of what is fast becoming a well-known and well-publicized event.
“Following the success of last year’s ride, I’m really excited about our 2012 Granfondo,” said Merckx.
“New events are always tough to initiate, but Valley First provided us with instant stability and credibility in the Okanagan. July 8 can’t come soon enough.”
The VFGFAMO also has many community benefits as the event will again be supporting Valley First’s signature cause, Feed the Valley.
Like last year, leftover race supplies and recyclables will be donated to Feed the Valley. The event also benefits the Axel Merckx Youth Development Foundation, a not-for-profit initiative.
