FYI P2A 2025 registration is opening a little earlier this year - opens this Friday, Nov 22 at 8am. The race is a UCI Gravel World Champs qualifier this time around (apparently the only one in Canada), so that’s probably why. I’m sure spots will be gone more quickly than in past years.
I’m not sure if I’ll be racing for various reasons, but figured I would start a thread for those interested.
Reg opens Dec 2 at 8 am.
So I was on the fence about P2A this year as it’s always fun being a photographer and spectator, but I just can’t help myself.
Who’s racing? And which distance?
My 2 sons and I will be racing the P2A Cento. Although at ~$180+taxes to register it is getting pretty expensive 
Still need to register.
Yeah a little sticker shock when I saw the pricing. (I feel like that each year I imagine)
I noticed that Pascal setup a team for P2A for Waterloo Cycling Club. When registering you can add yourself to the team. We have 4 so far 
Also if anyone would like to donate to the cause (St. Joseph’s Healthcare research institute) you can do so from the link above. It is worth noting that the only fundraising for St. Joseph’s is from donations and not from the registration fees. At least that is my understanding.
Anyone know how are the rules for support teams/crew? Can riders have someone help or give them drinks and food along the course?
Theres designated feed zones on route - you can have someone at those points (I’ve never used myself as I try and carry everything on board)
I don’t know if it’s specifically against the rules, and this year it’s part of the UCI Gravel Worlds qualifiers so rule enforcement may be a bit more stringent (if you’re racing in that category). But if it’s anything like what it was last year, it doesn’t seem like it would be a big deal and really… who is going to know
If anyone is looking for an entry I know someone that isn’t going to be able to ride. I believe it is a VIP 100 distance, but I know in the past they would let you change what event the sign up was for. Let me know and I can put you in contact with them.
If anyone was aiming to qualify for the Gravel Worlds , seemingly they’ve cancelled the Nice event this year 
“UCI moves gravel championships from Nice to Paris”? 
Unfortunately I am not able to take part in P2A this year, but wanted to let participants know if interested that the organizers are introducing… reintroducing… OC registered club tents at the finish line.
I am happy to apply for the space on participants behalf and make arrangements to get someone the tent to set up.
Give me an idea of what members are thinking and what you would like for this event?
See Below:
NEW Initiative:
At this year’s race they have organized a new initiative for Ontario-registered cycling clubs. This year, they’re offering clubs a dedicated space at the finish line, including parking and an area to set up a tent. This will give clubs a place to support their riders, helping more local cyclists feel confident taking on P2A. They understand that for some, the event can seem intimidating, but with the backing of their club, riders will have the support they need to have an even better experience.
Hi Kerry,
Personally I would love it if we had a tent at the finish line. Would make a great space to hang out and keep our gear. I’m guessing someone would have to go to the start line to set it up before the races? I’m interested in hearing more about the finish line parking options mentioned as well!
Response:
Hi Kerry.
The arrangements are pretty straight forward as per the form that Ontario Cycling has been distributing for us. Yes, it is free if your club is affiliated with Ontario Cycling and you are paid up for 2025 dues.
1 12’x12’ tent plus either a car/van/pickup, or a trailer, but not both. No trucks. We have had some clubs ask for extra space but at this time we can’t confirm due to space limitations. So the advice I typically give is that the club should have something like a van and leave it in place for the day. Having a trailer means that you would have to park the vehicle towing the trailer off site which can be problematic.
I’ve attached the form for you just in case. Please read it over and get back to me if you have any further questions.
Regards,
Mike for P2A
PARIS TO ANCASTER BICYCLE RACE
APRIL 27, 2025
UCI GRAVEL WORLD SERIES
P2A2025 TEAM TENT REGISTRATION.pdf (343.0 KB)
Awesome! Thanks for sharing. I didn’t catch on that the parking was actually for one vehicle to accompany the tent, not for the club’s racers, but makes sense. I’m happy to volunteer to install and tear down the tent (unless someone else wants to do it) but may need a quick tutorial on how to do it…
I would be available for transport and set up/take down.
Just want to say, Club Tents matter. We’ve all taken our turns lugging that tent out of our basement to set it up at dawn at the finish line before driving to the start. @MarkW and @KevRidesGravel turned it into an art.
We used to consistently get 50+ Club members out for P2A. And part of that was having a big green home at the end for us to celebrate together. It was a great source of pride letting people know WCC was here and a top club in Ontario. Which we still are.
2019 P2A
2018 P2A
2017 P2A
2016 P2A
2015 P2A - My one vanity shot with Morten. No tent that year.
2014 P2A - We’d still gather to fly the club colours at the end.
My first P2A was 1996 (its second running). Thank goodness the NextGen is carrying the torch. @KGale @pascallap @JimDaley
I can help with teardown… since I’ll likely be last across the line :)… hoping for tail winds though…
