More than 500 riders cycled Saint Lazare streets Sunday during the town’s 22nd annual Cyclo-tour.
Saint Lazare mayor Robert Grimaudo (second from left) congratulated Soulanges MNA Lucie Charlebois (right) for her inaugural ride.
(Photo: Kristina Edson)
Soulanges MNA participates for first time
The June 7 non-competitive ride that saw cyclists of all ages participate on the sunny day, was also a milestone for Soulanges MNA Lucie Charlebois who participated for the first time in the annual event that included 11-km and a 22-km course options.
Charlebois, who has made health and fitness a priority during the past year and who has lost a considerable amount of weight, applauded the 527 people who came out for the ride.
Also cycling were Saint Lazare mayor Robert Grimaudo, town councillors Pamela Tremblay and Denis Briard. SQ Sgt.
Bruno Beaulieu helped distribute bicycle safety pamphlets and activity booklets. Tips included how to choose a properly fitted helmet and bicycle, the importance of riding single file and with the flow of traffic, obeying road signs and traffic signals and ensuring good visibility at night.
Also helping keep participants safe were more than 30 volunteers, members of the Saint Lazare summer camp staff, and first responders and firefighters.
Meanwhile, Bernard St. Hilaire of St. Hilaire Bicycle in Saint Lazare continued his tradition of offering free basic repairs and air prior to the event start, and later, roadside assistance. And each participant received a goody bag that included re-usable water bottles courtesy of Caisse Desjardins Vaudreuil-Soulanges.
Elaine Vermette, Director of the Saint-Lazare Service Center said her team is always ready to give back. The financial institution has given more than $3-million in the region since 2009.
The June 7 ride was less well attended than in previous editions. Peak years have seen as many as 1,500 people participate.
