By Kate Bartlett
This Saturday, October 4th marks the 5th annual EA2EVL Fondo. This fundraiser is a 42-mile scenic bike ride from East Aurora to Ellicottville in support of the Erie-Cattaraugus Rail Trial. Since it’s inception, the event has raised nearly $250,000.
The EA2EVL Fondo was developed by John Cimperman, owner and founder of 42 North, a craft brewery in East Aurora. “What started as a crazy idea has become a really fun, annual fundraising event,” explains John. “It’s an incredibly scenic ride, in my opinion, the most beautiful in the region. And it’s quite serendipitous that it’s exactly 42 miles from our start at 42 North in East Aurora, to our finish line at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville.”
John has participated in the ride every year and describes it as a relaxed ride, not a race. “Fondo literally means a casual, fun, ride, which describes our event perfectly. Everyone gathers in good spirits and I’ve made many friends throughout the years. It’s a great way to get to know fellow riders during the race, or at the after party. Riders of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate; E-Bikes are welcome.”
water and refreshment stops with volunteers about every 10
miles along the route. A police escort starts the ride in East
Aurora.
The route has been the same since its inception, starting at 42 North in East Aurora, riding along 240, heading west on Route 242 into Ellicottville. “The rolling hills provide just enough challenge to make it rewarding; that final descent into Ellicottville is incredibly satisfying. This time of the year is perfect for the ride, with our cooler mornings, and the beautiful fall foliage.” The Fondo has historically been the first weekend in October, just before Fall Fest in Ellicottville, toward the beginning of the leaves turning.
The Fondo has met its goal of raising $50,000/year to support the Erie-Cattaraugus Rail Trial (read more about this next week). The funds go towards opening, building and maintaining the 27-mile Rail Trail that will run from Orchard Park to Ellicottville. The trail aims at enhancing the Western New York Community by providing a place for public recreation for locals and visitors alike.
Following the race, everyone is invited to celebrate at the after party at the finish line at Holiday Valley featuring live music with Kody and Heron from Springville, craft brews from 42 North and fabulous food by Fat Bobs and Dina’s. “It’s always a great party,” says John. “It is free and open to the public. We encourage the community to come down and celebrate in good spirits.” Riders are expected to start arriving at the finish line around noon, with the party anticipated to run until about 5pm.
Participants will receive a t-shirt, as well as food and drink tickets for the afterparty. Fundraising is encouraged, with additional incentives for certain milestones. Anyone who raises $500 or more will receive a custom bike jersey. “We’re proud to help such a worthy cause,” remarks John.
The course is well-staffed with safety in mind and several water and refreshment stops with volunteers about every 10 miles along the route. Tom’s Pro Bike and Endurance Factor will be available along the route to provide assistance as needed, ensuing everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience. A police escort starts the ride in East Aurora.
The ride starts at 10am and while it is self-paced, the majority of riders finish around 12:30-1pm, with course open until 5pm. Bus transportation is available back to the starting line with two shuttle times at 2:30 and 4:15. As mentioned, it is geared toward all ages and ability levels, and e-bikes are welcome. Registration is still open, but is expected to sell out. For more information and to register visit https://www.givesignup.org/Race/NY/EastAurora/EA2EVLFondo.