Fresh Trails Adventure and the CMA 2014’s Tour de L’Acadie 2014. . . In the books. On Saturday August 16 over 100 cyclists gathered at the University of Maine at Fort Kent bright and early for the inaugural and annual Tour de L’Acadie. 3 different rides/distances, the 10 mile family and kids ride, the 30 mile intermediate route and the “more than challenging” 54 mile loop made for a memorable day of cycling . . . Randonnée style.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Nowland hall prepared by Jason Carter and his staff. Cyclists picked up their Jessomes’ “schwagg” bag filled with cool stuff from many of our sponsors; Inn of Acadia, Louis Long Sucrerie, Bouchard’s family farms, Misty Meadows farms, Rapha and FTA. Goodies Cafe provided coffee and muffins at the Romain Caron covered bridge rest stop while Valley Auto of Fort Kent supported all of the riders with 3 nice decaled vehicles .

An authentic acadian style lunch awaited all cyclists upon their return while the “Ghost of Paul Revere provide excellent entertainment.

Special mention must be given to the following individuals; Regis Bacle from France for traveling so far to participate and Dee Madore for being the only female to complete the grueling 54 mile tour. Pete McCorsin and Dave Chamberlain for the “Acadian Spirit”award. With only 4 miles left to go on the long route Pete had 2 flats and was unable to continue, Dave graciously gave Pete his bike so that he could finish what he started. That’s what it’s all about, kudos’ to all!!

Also special thanks to all the volunteers who helped out with the registration and ensuring that the ride went off safely and without a hitch. And last but certainly not least our major sponsor, supporter and special consultants, BIKE BOARD and SKI. Thanks Mike and Tom Chasse and Andrew Bouchard.

I look forward with optimism for an even bigger and better Tour de L’Acadie for 2015. See you then. August 15, 2015 . La fete Nationale de L’Acadie.