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Unique 24H Mosport Velo coming to Ontario speedway this September

It's not too late to sign up for the 24-hour team ride on the international motorsport track in Bowmanville in support of Special Olympics Ontario

The 10-turn speedway at Mosport Park in Bowmanville will be reserved for cyclists on Sept. 21 and 22 for a unique 24-hour team relay cycling event to benefit the Special Olympics. The 24H Mosport Velo Grand Prix Cycle Relay is the perfect opportunity for teams and individuals to test themselves in an endurance cycling ride while raising money that makes sports more accessible to athletes with intellectual disabilities. It promises to be a fun two days of riding with multiple awards, a barbeque, a sunrise breakfast, time splits for all laps and riders and pro support, all with an exciting atmosphere at the speedway.

“It’s a big event that gives corporate, club and teams made up of individuals the opportunity to get together to support a good cause,” said event organizer Frank Abels. “They get into the riding, have some fun, get to be with other cyclists and experience the euphoria together. People feel a great sense of accomplishment for supporting a good cause and what they are able to complete with this big ride. I hope they get the same type of bonding experience we’ve noticed from our other 24H events.”

The event takes place on the 4 km Grand Prix circuit, which is also used for the Good Friday Road Race, the Ontario Cycling Association road season opener and the only other opportunity cyclists get to ride around the undulating track. The course offers up a challenging climb, exciting descent and quick sections to make the riding an exciting physical challenge.

“The race sector and pavilion at Mosport is spectacular,” Abels said. “By having that track for the weekend, we get the run of the place. We will have spotters, timing and a feed zone, and teams can have their tents set up in the pit zone.”

The 24H Mosport’s main ambassador is four-time Olympian and three-time Olympic medalist Curt Harnett. The team fundraising cycling experience will direct all rider pledges and donations to help special Olympic athletes through Special Olympics Ontario.

Alma, a member of Special Olympics, with first responders.

”There are costs associated with getting coaching, the equipment and the hours at fields and arenas,” Abels explained. “Special Olympics Ontario is really a great program. It’s an organization that deeply empowers through sport. It’s great for individuals, giving them an outlet, and brings them self-confidence and motivation. It also is good support for families.”

The 24H Mosport can be tackled as an endurance challenge, or as a fun and memorable weekend. Either way, it promises to be a rewarding one-of-a-kind experience.

Sign your team up with the code SPECIAL4U and save $400 (22 per cent) on the $1,800 team registration fee. Teams can be made up of 5 to 10 individuals. There are also a limited number of single and double spots available at entry fees of $500 and $750 respectively.