By Jonathan Fleury
March 13, 2020. Everyone remembers this landmark date. I'm at a school in Gatineau to explain the Cycliste averti program to motivated teachers. Time stands still. The Prime Minister's press conference. Schools, CEGEPs, universities and daycare centers are closed to prevent the spread of the virus.
The pandemic is to be taken seriously. Several other measures will follow. The spring 2020 season of Cycliste averti has to be cancelled. I'm on temporary layoff. As a recipient (yes, yes!) of the Canadian Emergency Benefit, I decide to help out at an organic farm in Amos. Why not go by bike?
On the road, I notice that Route verte to Abitibi-Témiscamingue needs some love. Arriving at my destination, between milking cows and planting semis, I report on the situation to my superiors. This gave rise to the idea of cycling a large part of the Route verte and compiling my observations.
5,500 kilometers later. 16 of 17 regions visited. 3 months of cycling.
Here's the story of my adventure.
