This year, the two-day event will continue its appeal to both elite and recreational cyclists. The road-cycling ride begins at the northwestern tip of Prince Edward Island and promises to be a great time for everyone involved. Participants can pedal the countryside for the full 182.4 kilometres (km) over the two-day period or may choose to participate in just one day. If neither of those options is your style, this year two shorter routes that encompass 44.5 km, and 41.5 km, are in place within the original route.

“Tourism PEI is very happy to support the North Cape Coastal Ride again this year,” said Honourable Valerie Docherty, Minister of Tourism. “The North Cape Coastal Ride is a well-organized event that has strong support from local communities which make it a truly regional welcome for riders throughout the two days. No matter what your skill level is, you can find an opportunity to take part in the Ride and enjoy the beauty of the area.”

While travelling the route, on day one cyclists will be treated to a host of exceptional attractions and beautiful coastal vistas including North America’s longest natural rock reef at North Cape. Organizers invite participants to watch for the traditional gathering of Irish moss, miles of sandy shoreline and magnificent sandstone cliffs. Day one will have cyclists travelling along Route 14 to the charming community of O’Leary, one of the most productive potato farming regions of the Island, and the official finish line for the day.

Day two begins at the entrance of the Mill River Provincial Park travelling along Route 2 eastward toward La Region Evangeline to experience the Island’s Acadian culture to its fullest. This portion of the ride hugs the coastline while winding along the North Cape Coastal Drive to Union Corner. As participants head toward the finish line, they will cycle along the Summerside waterfront, overlooking the harbour and Holman’s Island. The final finish-line for day two is located at the Shipyard Market in Summerside, the Gateway of the North Cape Coastal Drive.

Nora Williams, Chairperson for the North Cape Coastal Ride said, “We will be showcasing Western PEI with its pastoral landscapes and welcoming communities the weekend of September 8 and 9 when we, once again, host the North Cape Coastal Ride. We welcome one and all.”

Sponsors included Tourism PEI, P.E.I. Department of Transportation and Public Works, City of Summerside and North Cape Coastal Drive Steering Committee consisting of Tourism Summerside, Association Touristique Evangeline Tourism Association and Western Tourism Association, Confederation Bridge and Rodd Mill River Resort ~ a Rodd Signature Resort and Cycling PEI.

For more information on the North Cape Coastal Ride, visit the website www.ride-pei.com