The 2025 Sustainable Orillia Bike Challenge officially concluded on July 14 after 64 days of pedal-powered community action. From May 12 through mid-July, residents of all ages swapped car keys for bike helmets, promoting sustainability, healthy lifestyles, and family fun.
Organized by Sustainable Orillia, in partnership with The Bike Stop of Orillia and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, this year’s challenge saw an impressive 809 total riding days recorded by participants. Riders had the chance to earn a commemorative cycling patch based on how many days they rode:
- Bronze(10–20 days)
- Silver(21–40 days)
- Gold(41–56 days)
A total of 29 participants earned achievement patches, with 6 riders reaching Gold, 5 earning Silver and 18 achieving Bronze.
Congratulations to our Gold Patch Winners who led the pack with determination and dedication:
- Alyssa Mooney– 64 days
- Cathy Walsh– 63 days
- Nasreen De’Almeida– 47 days
- Stella Vezzosi– 45 days
- Jay Rothenburg– 44 days
- Max Robinson– 43 days
Cycling wasn’t just a solo activity—families played a huge role in this year’s challenge. Top family riders were Lauren Bloemendal, Amanda Hooykass, Angie Jarvis, and Manpreet Sidhu, each receiving a $100 local restaurant gift certificate for their outstanding commitment to riding together.
While logging kilometres was optional, participants still reported an impressive 6,264 kilometres ridden during the challenge—a testament to the distance a community can cover together in pursuit of a greener future.
“This year’s challenge clearly showed that Orillians are embracing cycling, not only as a fun and healthy activity, but also as a real transportation choice,” said Dave VanAlstyne of Sustainable Orillia. “Whether they rode to work, school or just around the block, they all contributed to an impressive total.”
The Bike Challenge is part of Sustainable Orillia’s ongoing efforts to support active transportation and aligns with broader climate action goals aimed at reducing car dependency and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Organizers extend their thanks to all participants, partners, and sponsors, and encourage residents to keep riding—through every season—for their health, their community, and the planet.