Black Hills winery hosts the “Ride With a Winemaker” event on the May 22-24 weekend. About 50 riders are taking part.
Photo contributed
Cycling enthusiasts, who also happen to like wine, are in for the treat of their lives on May 22-24 when they get to “Ride with a Winemaker.”
Black Hills Winemaker Graham Pierce invites people to join him for a weekend of cycling, wining, dining and socializing throughout the South Okanagan. Joining him will be Olympians Kelsey Serwa and Kristi Richards, along with several other winemakers from the Okanagan.
“The main goal is to provide a super fun wine, food and cycling experience,” said Pierce, a long-time cyclist.
He noted the South Okanagan is an amazing place to ride and has some great food, and of course, great wine.
The ride comes complete with a Friday night dinner at Black Hills winery (catered by Richards), a Saturday night feast by Joy Road Catering, and a lunch at Liquidity winery in Okanagan Falls on Sunday.
There will also be support vehicles for riders who need a lift.
Pierce meets countless wine and cycling lovers, so he wanted to create an event that would cater to them.
Last year’s event attracted approximately 45 riders. This year about 50 riders will participate.
Pierce said they are fortunate to have a number of winemakers take part this year, including Michael and Cynthia Enns from Laughing Stock, Robert Thielicke from Joie Farms, Larry and Linda from Stag’s Hollow, Todd Moore from Quidni, and Michael Bartier from Bartier Brothers.
The plan is to split up into three groups with the winemakers guiding the guests.
Pierce noted this is a fun ride, not a race.
They ride three different routes from 65-100 kilometres the first day and between 45-80 kilometres the second day.
“We have great aid stations along the way including one at Liquidity, and full van support. You do not have to be an uber-fit racer type.”
Pierce recommends a standard road or triathlon bike.
The winemaker has been fortunate to become friends with Serwa and Richards, both former world ski champions.
“They are amazing ambassadors for their sport. We use the event to raise money through silent auctions and raffles for Kelsey’s “KSER” Bursary for student athletes.”
Pierce said Ride With a Winemaker definitely has spin-off effects in the community.
“With 80 plus per cent of the guests coming from out of the Okanagan there is certainly a positive economic impact. Also, the event generates favourable exposure for the wine and tourism industry.”
For more information, contact Pierce at [email protected] or call 250-498-0666.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
