Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Wheelhouse on the Water 2024
Every summer in Kenora, there’s an event that transcends the ordinary—Wheelhouse on the Water. Hosted by Wheelhouse Cycle Club Winnipeg for the third consecutive year, the 2024 edition on August 5th delivered stunning lakeside views, an electric atmosphere, and unforgettable memories. But what most people don’t see is the incredible effort and dedication behind the scenes that make this event not just possible, but extraordinary.
From the moment the Wheelhouse Team begins preparing in Winnipeg, the excitement starts to build. There’s a unique buzz among the group as they gather the day before the event, meticulously prepping towels, cycling shoes, and all the essentials for the big day. It’s no small feat—40 bikes, each weighing 160 pounds, need to be loaded into a truck with a careful, almost puzzle-like precision. The weighty flywheels, vital to the bike’s resistance, are a challenge in themselves, but the team is undeterred.
As the sun rises over Kenora, the team rolls into town, filled with anticipation. By early afternoon, they’re at the lakefront, ready to transform the dock into a one-of-a-kind outdoor cycling studio. A five-ton truck, packed with equipment, rolls onto a barge and is carefully transported to the dock where setup begins in earnest. It’s a labor of love—hours spent arranging bikes, wiring up sound systems, and conducting sound checks, all to create a seamless experience for the riders.
Once the setup is complete, the team gathers for a well-earned dinner, a moment to pause and reflect before the big day. But the preparation doesn’t stop there. Back at the cabin, playlists are fine-tuned—song choices that will fuel the energy of the rides, motivating every participant to give it their all.
And then, it’s showtime.
As dawn breaks over the lake, the dock is ready to come alive with the hum of spinning wheels. Three back-to-back rides are scheduled, each one filled with energy, heart, and purpose. For some, the event holds personal significance. This year, the top donors were invited to request a song during the ride.
But beyond the playlists and high-fives, what stands out most is the spirit of togetherness. The Wheelhouse Motivators and People Team—Becky, Eric, Erin, Hannah, Jody, Josee, Julia, Maddy, and Taylor—pours heart and soul into making this event not just a fundraiser, but an unforgettable experience. Their energy is infectious, their dedication unmatched, and their love for what they do shines through in every moment.
The impact of Wheelhouse on the Water reaches far beyond the dock. Through the tireless efforts of everyone involved, the event raised $7,000 for the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation, bolstering the Lifesavers fundraising efforts. It’s a community-wide achievement, made possible by generous partners like the Heimbecker Family, Shaun D. Stevenson Construction LTD, Jamie Pope – Tim Hortons Winnipeg, Atlas Strength and Fitness, Nautical Coffee, and by every participant who joined the ride to support a greater cause.
In the end, Wheelhouse on the Water is more than just an event—it’s a reflection of the power of collaboration, the joy of movement, and the strength of community. As the LWDH Foundation looks back on this year’s success, our hearts are full of gratitude, and we’re already counting down the days to next summer’s ride.