Finding Community Through Tour d’Epicure

Alison didn’t know exactly what to expect when she signed up for her first Tour d’Epicure ride five years ago. A self-described “cyclist newbie,” she joined through a friend, took on the 50 km route, and quickly discovered that Tour d’Epicure was about much more than the kilometres.

Now she’s preparing for her fourth ride.

“What inspired me was seeing firsthand how cancer impacts daily life, health, and happiness,” Alison shares. “I’ve seen how hard this fight is for adults and especially for little kids. Riding feels like one small way I can help.”

 

For Alison, supporting kids and families through Campfire Circle is deeply personal. Cancer has touched the lives of people close to her, and that connection continues to fuel her commitment to fundraising and riding.

“Everybody at Tour d’Epicure is there for one purpose, helping kids with cancer get to camp,” she says. “It’s not your traditional ride. There’s this joyful energy throughout the day. Even when you’re climbing a steep hill at 8 km/h, people are cheering you on and motivating you to keep going.”

Alison has become one of the event’s biggest champions – not only returning year after year, but bringing others along for the journey too.

“Bringing more people helps bring more kids to camp,” she says. “I want to spread the word and help create more awareness. If people heard the stories of campers, they’d get on their bikes immediately. Seeing the happiness camp brings to kids would make anyone ride that extra kilometre.”

One of Alison’s favourite memories from the event was crossing the finish line after completing the 100 km ride – a goal she once never imagined possible.

“Finishing the 100 km and celebrating with friends was such an incredible feeling of accomplishment,” she says.

For anyone considering signing up for Tour d’Epicure for the first time, Alison has a simple message: come for the ride, stay for the community, and know that every kilometre helps create joy, connection, and unforgettable camp experiences for kids who need it most.