2018
Everesting as a fundraiser was piloted in 2018 to raise support for capital improvements to the building New Hope Community Bikes purchased in spring that year. In its first year, 12 riders participated on a very cold and rainy day and raised almost $10,000 for the cause. Everyone agreed that even though the effort was painful and the weather miserable, the overall experience was a fun way to raise money. The proof of concept was there and 2019 was the year to grow the event.
2019
Getting a permit to close the road was the first step towards ensuring rider safety and enjoyment. Fifty Road, at the furthest east edge of Hamilton’s boundary, was the obvious choice for its scenic views, good quality pavement and relatively low traffic volumes.
42 Riders signed up to punish themselves on the 110m climb with about 1/3 of the riders being affiliated with the newly formed New Hope Bike Club.
The format of Everesting fits well with the New Hope vision of building community through bikes, allowing riders of different skill levels and fitness to ride together and regroup regularly at the top and bottom of the course. This provided lots of opportunities to share encouragement and share the story of ‘why we do what we do’.
The weather on October 18, 2019 was perfect for riding, cool in the morning and comfortable for t-shirt riding in the afternoon. Many spectators and family members came out to cheer on the riders and one of the local radio stations did a ‘live on location’ piece from the top of the hill. Together the group climbed over 80,000m of elevation, two riders accomplished solo Everest climbs and many others completed half of the 8,848m.
Overall, Everesting 2019 raised $16,692 to support our ongoing programs and staffing! Feedback after the event was positive and we have already set the date for the next challenge:
2020
Despite Covid-19 restrictions in 2020, the event went forward with 52 riders participating and over $24,000 raised. 6 Riders completed SOLO efforts and received commemorative photos! 2020’s ride started with a brief early morning thunder storm and down pour, but by 9 am the skies had cleared and riders were starting to count their laps. The day turned into a perfect day for riding with moderate temperatures great for riding. The fastest solo rider finished in under 12 hours!
2021
With fewer Covid-19 restrictions in place, Everesting grew again for 2021. The friends and family FLAT ride was added, and a total of 92 riders signed up to participate in the days’ festivities. We brought in a catered lunch from everyone’s favourite cycling cafe Domestique! Together the riders raised over $25,000