This past Saturday, the Tour de Headwaters took place, where just over 200 enthused cyclists rode around the Caledon/Dufferin area, despite the inclement weather. The event starts and ends in Inglewood, and depending on the path the participant chooses, can take the riders through the quiet and scenic towns of Belfountain, Alton & Erin. Registered participants are also treated to a post-event BBQ, snacks before and during the ride, as well as the opportunity to win fantastic prizes. The Tour de Headwaters is conducted to raise money for the Headwaters Health Care Centre, and is just one of the many events conducted to benefit this honourable foundation.
For the event, participates were given 3 distances to choose from, the 25km ride, geared towards families taking part in the event, and the 50km or 101.5km ride, implemented for more experienced riders and participants looking for more of a challenge. Since commencing these fundraising events, the Headwaters Health Care Foundation has raised over 16 million dollars to assist towards purchasing new medical equipment for the upcoming hospital expansion. This event in particular raising over $35,000 for the Headwater Hospital and was done in memory of the late Paula Coates. The events and foundation are also conducted to bring awareness to citizens that, although healthcare comes at a reduced costs for Canadians, the government does not assist with the purchase of necessary medical equipment and equipment maintenance. In turn, it’s very important for residents to come together and raise money to assist a cause that will eventually benefit us all at some point or another.
For more information on the Tour de Headwaters, here is a link to the “Tour de Headwaters is set for Saturday, rain or shine” article, published in the Orangeville Citizen.