Celebrating the outdoors in Squamish
Founded in 1992, SORCA recognized a regional passion for cycling. Today, the organization has grown to more than 3,400 members and continues to play a leading role in maintaining and enhancing the trail networks that make Squamish a world-renowned mountain biking destination. The trails and woodlands are at the heart of their continuing dedication to off-road cycling in Squamish.
“Mountain biking is deeply woven into the fabric of Squamish,” says SORCA president Brennan Williams. “The trails play an important role in our local culture, recreation and economy. We're grateful to FortisBC for supporting the work we do to help ensure these trails can be enjoyed by our community for years to come.”
The “Pedal to Pawrès” event celebrated the community’s passion for off-road cycling and a love of the outdoors. Riders (and their dogs!) headed out on trails in the Valleycliffe area before ending the evening at Squamish Canyon, a popular destination known for its elevated boardwalks and canyon walkways in the heart of B.C.'s coastal rainforest.
Following the ride, participants had an opportunity to connect with fellow cyclists, enjoy refreshments including dog treats provided by FRAPS Institute and spend time together in one of Squamish's most scenic places. They also had a chance to pick up a pair of the always-popular FortisBC socks.
“Trails are a big part of what makes Squamish special,” says community relations manager at FortisBC, Michelle Ticas. “We’re glad to get a chance to support an event that gets people outside and connected with their community. We are proud to team up with SORCA, Squamish Canyon and FRAPS institute to support an evening of riding, connection and fun.”
Strengthening connections
It was an honour for FortisBC’s Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Pipeline (EGP) Project team to be invited to co-sponsor an event that’s so important to Squamish residents.
"The SORCA event provided an excellent venue for the community to engage with and appreciate these spectacular surroundings," said Ken Bailey, general manager of Squamish Canyon. "We invited FortisBC to co-sponsor and participate alongside us in the spirit of working together, reflecting our shared commitment to giving back to the Squamish community."
SORCA’s event was another chance for us to engage with other attendees and to connect with the community.
“The Squamish community cares about what SORCA and Squamish Canyon represent so well, which is being outdoors and feeling connected to the area's natural surroundings," Michelle says. “When we were asked if we wanted to contribute and attend an event celebrating the area with the rest of the community, the answer was a very enthusiastic 'of course!'”
Giving back to the community in ways that are important and meaningful to the people who live here continues to guide our community relations efforts. Being present and engaged as we mingled with event attendees helped to put faces to names, too.
“Squamish is a tight-knit community,” Michelle says, “and we are so happy to take part in events like this that are so much fun and help to bring everyone closer together. When it comes to our team and the Project, being present like this really helps strengthen connections and allows us to learn more about our neighbours. We’re grateful for opportunities to connect with the Squamish community.
Building relationships as our project continues
Events like SORCA’s “Pedal to Pawrès” gives us a chance to continue connecting with Squamish residents. The EGP Project is proud of the relationships we’ve built in getting to know the people of Squamish and to continue to support the active outdoor lifestyle this community enjoys.
To learn more about the Eagle Mountain – Woodfibre Gas Pipeline Project, please visit our project page.
