A major cycling event coming to the Fraser Valley this summer is looking for some help when it comes to handing out its hardware.
The inaugural , with the race鈥檚 start and finish line in Fort 91原创.
The 160 km GranFondo route starts in Fort 91原创 and heads out along southern country roads to 0 Avenue, where it continues through Arnold, along the Sumas Prairie, and over Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.
Riders then head back to Fort 91原创 through the Matsqui flats and Glen Valley. This route is for cyclists 19 and older.
As the participants cross the finish line, each will receive a medal showcasing a unique First Nations design.
鈥淲e are pleased to recognize the artists of Kwantlen First Nation and are honoured to have their artistry symbolize the accomplishment of our riders,鈥� said Jeffrey Hansen-Carlson, the general manager of the Canadian Velo Event Management Society.
The contest to come up with the winning medal design 鈥� which combines First Nations art work with the theme of cycling 鈥� has been narrowed down to two designs: one by Phyllis Atkins and the other by Brandon Gabriel.
鈥淏efore creating this piece, I first thought about what it would mean to have true passion to be a cyclist, and that cycling is more than just riding a bike,鈥� explained Atkins.
鈥淚t鈥檚 like flying but without wings. So that is why I chose the Eagle to represent the cyclists riding free in the wind.鈥�
鈥淭he Golden Eagle is the most revered icon in many North American Native cultures, in particular, to the Coast Salish culture,鈥� Gabriel said.
鈥淭he Golden Eagle is considered to be the Messenger to the Creator, because of its capabilities to fly to extreme altitudes.鈥�
The original images may be viewed at the Fort 91原创 National Historic Site until Feb. 29.
Online voting between the two designs can be done .
