This month, we proudly celebrate a true community champion, Twila Fillion. For the past seven years, Twila has dedicated her time and energy to the sport of cycling, embodying the essence of community spirit. Her unwavering focus has consistently been on fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness through movement. What sets Twila apart is her commitment to ensuring her initiatives are accessible to everyone, regardless of financial constraints. Twila’s dedication to inclusivity has truly made a difference in the lives of many, shaping a cycling community that is welcoming and supportive to all.
Twila’s leadership as the “Director of Cycling for All” on the Board of Directors since 2020 has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity within our cycling programs. Her role as the Officials Representative for Road Cycling at the 2017 Canada Summer Games showcased her ability to ensure the smooth execution of events, enhancing the experience for athletes and spectators alike. Additionally, her dedication to organizing Fall Cyclocross Bootcamps from 2017 to 2019 further demonstrates her passion for empowering cyclists of all levels.
Twila’s vision truly came to life through the Cycling for All recreational rides held from 2020 to 2023. Whether it was an intimate gathering of 30 or a bustling crowd exceeding 100, from Taco Tours to Bakery Bike Rides, she ensured that every participant felt welcomed and valued, fostering connections among cyclists from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Her latest initiative, the Big Bike Film Night at CCFM, provided a platform for cyclists to come together and celebrate their shared passion. Beyond showcasing films, these events ignited enthusiasm and a sense of community within our group, thanks to Twila’s dedication to creating memorable experiences.
As we honor Twila’s remarkable journey and the profound impact she has had on our cycling community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for her tireless dedication and unwavering commitment. Twila’s legacy of inclusivity, community spirit, and passion for cycling will continue to inspire us all as we pedal forward into the future.
As we continue to celebrate Twila’s remarkable contributions to cycling, we want to share some exciting news. This cycling season, Twila will be taking a well-deserved break as she prepares to welcome twins into her life! While she takes this time to focus on her growing family, we are immensely grateful for all that she has done to enrich our cycling community. Twila’s dedication, passion, and leadership have left a mark on us all, and we can’t wait for her to return in the near future. Until then, let’s continue to pedal forward, inspired by Twila’s legacy of inclusivity, community spirit, and boundless enthusiasm for cycling!