Wilvaken's First Cycling Summer

Cycling at Wilvaken -  Summer 2011

Last summer marked the beginning of Wilvaken's cycling program with the purchase of 12 bikes. Suddenly, the talk was of multi-tools, tire pressure, and which roads were connected allowing one to cycle around the lake (oddly, though seemingly a question of simple fact, this debate only intensified as the summer went on). In a sort of homage to the new road-going 12, small and ancient camp bikes were enthusiastically restored, becoming camp's objets d'art du jour.  One was painted red and gold by a spontaneous collective camper and staff effort (to the latest music) that only Wilvaken's flexible afternoon schedule could allow for. Suddenly campers and staff with real knowledge about bike repair started piping up  -  they could holler away freely about shifters and seatstays, chainstays and cogsets. It was the zeitgeist. When the black spandex cycling shorts appeared, I realized it was more. It was Cycling Fever.
And actual cycling trips happened too. The land circumnavigation of Lac Lovering was indeed heroically achieved, in both directions. Keeping things fresh for 2012, no one quite remembers (or can agree) on the exact route taken. The covered "Narrows Bridge" was visited, as was the spectacularly lush Tomifobia Bike Trail. One group cycled to Burrows Falls, and at least two groups managed to dig deep and make it to Wood's Snack Bar in Ayer's Cliff. The CITs all completed a 50 km day-trip with the aid of such sustenance.
Summer cycling in the Eastern Townships simply has to be experienced to be believed - it is an absolute joy of an activity. The cycling program adds a fun, healthy, environmentally responsible way to see the surrounding sights. The trips were restricted to older campers who demonstrated that they could ride in a controlled way and were deemed responsible. Safety rules were strictly communicated and enforced, and staff were equipped with radios to communicate between the front and back of the group of riders.
This coming summer we hope to try new routes, find more views, and enjoy the countryside together.

Duncan, Assistant Camp Director.
cycling