Michael and Jamie own Blacksmith Cycle, Toronto's premiere road cycling boutique located on the second floor of a century-old industrial loft in the city's Roncesvalles neighbourhood. Offering a curated collection of some of the world's finest hand-built bicycle brands, Blacksmith Cycle aims to combine exceptional design, fit, and component selection to allow each customer to create the bike of their dreams. We are excited to be able to combine our passion for cycling with an amazing charitable cause to help create a unique and memorable event for discerning cyclists.

Northern Pass is an event that is very close to my heart as it directly benefits the hospital that saved my life – Princess Margaret. After two very invasive surgeries to combat oral cancer, I began cycling primarily to improve my health. At the time, I had no idea that the bike would become an integral part of my life and I am currently working hard on my fitness to challenge myself in the upcoming racing season. This ride is an EPIC way to have a great time on the bike and raise money for a place that gives people a chance to live a longer and happier life.

My name is Jeremy Nathan. I'm a professional photographer, a writer, cyclist, rock climber, father, and a self professed geek. The cycling story of my life began as a kid. Growing up in my neighbourhood, you rode bikes. That's just what you did. Cycling offered us all an opportunity to go anywhere and do anything. As children our only limits were when we had to be back for dinner. And while the type of cycling I've done through life may have changed many times, my love for being on two wheels has not.
 

Now as I've grown older, I've developed a deeper appreciation for the shifting landscapes of Ontario. We are fortunate to live in one of the most diverse places in the world. And one of the crown jewels to Ontario is, Muskoka. Over the past few years I've been fortunate enough to have spent summers cycling back roads around the lakes which I am excited to share with friends and fellow cyclist as part of the Northern Pass.

I am very pleased to be involved in the first edition of the Norther Pass. Since I was a young child, road cycling has been an important part of my life and at the age of 10, I received my first road bicycle, a 650c pink and white Steve Bauer. Sparring with friends on hard, hilly roads is a great joy and I am grateful to have the health and well-being to participate. That said, not everyone is afforded the luxury of good health and I ride in support of Princess Margaret Hospital Cancer Centre, whose critical mission needs continued support.

The Northern Pass is an event that is very close to my heart as it combines cycling and the Princess Margaret Centre, one of the top 5 cancer research centres in the world. Unfortunately my family and I have been personally touched by Cancer and the opportunity to give back should never be passed up. With the ability to get out on my bike, be healthy in Muskoka and Support the PMCC, I just couldn’t say “No”.

The Northern Pass was an incredibly successful event in its inaugural year and I hope to play a significant role in establishing this ride as “The Premier Muskoka Cycling Event”. I look forward to seeing you on the road.

After learning about the concept for this ride in Muskoka (last year), it became clear to me, that we would be able to address an entirely new group of people that may not have previously participated in an event for PMH. It was a pleasure working closely with the staff and volunteers last year on the Northern Pass ride. It is tremendously rewarding to see how many folks have already registered for the 2018 ride. I am honoured to be back on the committee that will create an even bigger, better event. The funds we raise (while enjoying a great ride) are needed in order to drive the cure closer and take better care of those in need. I look forward to seeing you on August 12th!