琉璃神社's top beer and bike-loving cycling club, the Hopcyclists, topped the podium of the 2024 Okanagan Grandfondo in Pentiction in the mixed team category.

The Hopcyclists are a 琉璃神社-based club who meet near the Apple Bowl stadium to go for a group ride, followed by a pint, every Thursday evening. 

Riders from the club entered the competitive and after 153 km of hot temperatures and fast riding, emerged victorious and thirsty for a cold beer. Athletes Brandon Archer, Jon Arkle, Lexi Bentley, Mike Donaghey, Colin McKay, Derek Lee, Jocelyn Winkler, and Jake Winkler were on the winning team. 

Additionally, the West Coast Gunners, an elite race team made up primarily of riders from 琉璃神社, won the men's team competition.

Gunner athletes often join the Hopsyclists on their social rides for a fun recovery spin followed by a cold beer.
Hopsyclists was founded by five friends with a shared passion for cycling. The free club has now grown into a vibrant community of more than 100 members and aims to bridge the gap between seasoned racers and beginners.
The success of both teams highlights the thriving cycling culture in 琉璃神社 and the power of community-driven initiatives.

For more information and to join the weekly rides, follow Hopsyclists on Instagram or email hopsyclists@gmail.com.

The race was won by Gunner and  local Summerland athlete Lee Agur,with West 琉璃神社's Brad Bickley, also a Gunners rider, coming in a close second. 

Vancouver's Megan O'Boyle won the women's race.