Press Release
(For immediate release)
CLARE, NS, CANADA – September 9, 2026: The Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie is gearing up for its eighth edition this fall. On Sunday, September 13, cyclists from across Canada and abroad will ride through Clare for Atlantic Canada’s largest cycling event — a celebration of sport, scenery, and Acadian hospitality.
Since its debut, the Gran Fondo has earned a reputation as a bucket-list cycling and cultural experience. Cyclists are treated to sweeping ocean views, enthusiastic roadside cheer squads, and a well-earned post-ride lobster dinner. Already, more than 533 cyclists have registered for 2026, with one-third hailing from outside Nova Scotia, and including riders from Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands.
This year’s routes offer something for everyone:
- Gran 128 km – takes cyclists through most of Clare, including Route 1, Route 340, the scenic Bas-de-la-Rivière coastal loop, and by panoramic Mavillette Beach.
- Medio 67 km – ideal for intermediate cyclists.
- Piccolo 35 km – designed for recreational riders and those who may just be getting into cycling.
The experience goes far beyond the ride itself. Hundreds of locals line the course waving Acadian flags and cheering on participants, while roughly 150 volunteers work behind the scenes to make the weekend a success.
The 2026 edition will be a special occasion as our event returns to the recently renovated Clare Veterans Centre in Saulnierville (9938 Highway 1). Riders can choose from a lobster, BBQ pork, or vegetarian chilli, and on Saturday they’ll be welcomed with fricot, finger foods, refreshments and live music.
Cyclists can still register online, or in person at the Clare Veterans Centre on Saturday, September 12 and the morning of the event. Registration is $155 plus processing fees/taxes and includes chip timing, a swag bag, rest stops with on-route animation, and a celebratory post-ride meal. Participants who signed up before July 20 will also receive a striking jersey.
“We can’t wait to see all the new and familiar faces again at our renovated venue for another unforgettable cycling experience.” stated Pam Doucet, Chairperson, Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie.
For full details and to register, visit www.granfondobaiesaintemarie.ca/en
Watch our 2026 YouTube promo video.
Media Contacts:
Larry Peach
Marketing Coordinator, GFBSM
Tourism Manager, Municipality of Clare
902-769-8555
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Pam Doucet
Chair, GFBSM
Director of Community Development, Municipality of Clare
902-769-8149
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Event Schedule:
All the following events are located at the Clare Veterans Centre (9938 Highway 1, Saulnierville).
Download the event schedule here.
Saturday, September 12, 2026:
| TIME | ACTIVITY |
|---|---|
| 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m | Check in and registration in the Clare Veterans Centre (9938 Highway 1, Saulnierville). |
| 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m | Social event with fricot, finger foods, refreshments, and entertainment at the Clare Veterans Centre. Live music from 12:00-2:00 p.m. |
Sunday, September 13, 2026:
| TIME | ACTIVITY |
|---|---|
| 6:30 a.m. | Parking lot opens near Clare Veterans Centre (9938 Highway 1, Saulnierville). |
| 7:00 a.m. | Check in and registration opens at Clare Veterans Centre. Registration closes at 8:30 a.m. |
| 8:00 a.m. | Cyclists to gather in the parking lot at Clare Veterans Centre. |
| 8:15 a.m. | Pre-ride briefing. |
| 8:30 a.m. | 128 km Gran Fondo ride starts. 2 waves: advanced/intermediate, followed by intermediate/beginner. |
| 8:45 a.m. | 67 km Medio Fondo ride starts. 2 waves: advanced/intermediate, followed by intermediate/beginner. |
| 9:00 a.m. | 35 km Piccolo Fondo ride starts. 2 waves: advanced/intermediate, followed by intermediate/beginner. |
| 10:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Finish line photos for all participants. |
| 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Post-ride meal with live music in the tent. |
| 3:00 p.m. | Route support ends. |
