Cycle Oregon Wraps Up Successful Year, Opens 2019 Grant Applications

Portland, Ore. — More than 1,500 Cycle Oregon cyclists rolled into Oakridge, Ore., on September 14, completing a seven-day, 430-mile ride through Central Oregon. The flagship ride of Cycle Oregon, the Classic gave participants scenic views of many Oregon natural wonders including the Cascade Mountains and Crater Lake, and the warm hospitality of numerous small towns, including Cottage Grove, La Pine and Diamond Lake – all rolled into a festival-like atmosphere.

The Classic finish also marked the end of a successful season year for Cycle Oregon, a Portland-based nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming individuals and communities through bicycling. Cycle Oregon’s three signature events included: Classic (Sept. 7-14, 2019); GRAVEL, a weekend gravel ride based out of Dufur, Ore. (May 17-19, 2019); and Joyride, a one-day, women-only ride based out of Independence, Ore. (June 22, 2019). Each distinct ride enabled cyclists of all abilities to explore the state’s renowned natural beauty on two wheels, plus connected them with the people, places and businesses of many rural Oregon towns.

All in all, more than 2,400 cyclists from 42 states and seven countries participated in Cycle Oregon’s three 2019 rides, which totaled more than 675 miles and 43,000 feet of elevation gain and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to local economies. The three events directly supported eight rural Oregon communities through the hiring of local groups for event support and local spending by cyclists. Cycle Oregon annually provides approximately $160,000 to community groups for the services they provide, ranging from event planning to volunteer organizing.

I marvel at how Cycle Oregon can double a population, be so professional and then be gone before we know it, leaving everyone with a smile on their face,” said Ann Gawith, Executive Director, La Pine Chamber of Commerce. “Even thought they were here for less than 24 hours, these cyclists really impacted our small town. Everyone was busy, from our restaurants and motels to our gas stations – and even our florist! And it was great to see our bike lanes filled with cyclists. Cycle Oregon was a fantastic experience for La Pine.”

“Even though Cycle Oregon is now over 30 years old, each ride feels fresh and exciting. The riders bring such positive energy to the state,” said Steve Schulz, Executive Director of Cycle Oregon. “We are incredibly grateful to all the communities across Oregon who welcomed our riders with open arms. While we have undeniably spectacular scenery that was showcased by our 2019 rides – from the eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge to the beautiful Willamette Valley to Central Oregon and the stunning Cascade Mountains and Crater Lake National Park – it’s really the people that make Oregon special.”

Discounted early registration for the 2020 Classic ride is now open online at www.cycleoregon.com, although the routes for all the 2020 events will not be revealed until the 2020 kick-off party on January 29, 2020. 

Cycle Oregon Fund’s 2019 Cycle Now Open through October 21, 2019

Cycle Oregon’s dedication to transforming lives through cycling is perhaps most visible in the projects around the state in which the Cycle Oregon Fund has invested. This fall, the Cycle Oregon Fund will award approximately $100,000 to local nonprofits working to preserve and protect the special places of Oregon and implement community development projects. Organizations are encouraged to submit applications now through October 21.

The Cycle Oregon Fund is supported by proceeds from the organization’s rides and managed by the Oregon Community Foundation. Over the last 20 years, the Fund has awarded more than 300 grants totaling $2.2 million, supporting projects ranging from bike racks in Baker City and Yachats to helping purchase land for the Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center. 

The Fund supports projects and programs throughout Oregon in three key areas: Environmental Conservation and Historic Preservation, Bicycle Safety & Tourism and Community Projects. Complete guidelines and an online application are available at cycleoregon.com/our-work/our-impact/.

About The Organization

Cycle Oregon is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming individuals and communities through bicycling. For riders who want an unparalleled Oregon bicycle experience at their own pace, they hosts a series of fully supported rides that offer a unique perspective of the state, all the while managing every last detail. Established in 1988, Cycle Oregon’s 30-plus years of event logistics and deep roots within the state create an authentic Oregon experience that strengthens communities—on and off the bike. Cycle Oregon attracts more than 4,500 riders from all 50 states and around the world. www.cycleoregon.com #ridecycleoregon