OTTAWA, ON (October 6, 2025) – Cycling Canada is proud to announce a transformational philanthropic commitment from Bill Buckley, a long-time supporter of Canadian cycling and dedicated member of the Les Domestiques Cycling Club. Buckley’s generous donation of $200,000 will directly support the Junior Men’s and Women’s Spring Road Racing Program in Europe across four critical seasons: 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029.
This gift marks the first-ever contribution at the Gold Tier of Cycling Canada’s Club 1882 fundraising program and stands as the largest individual commitment in Cycling Canada’s history. As the inaugural Gold Tier donor, Buckley sets a new benchmark for individual investment in the future of Canadian cycling.
“Bill’s leadership as a donor has had a profound and lasting impact on the cycling community in Canada,” said Mathieu Boucher, Interim CEO of Cycling Canada. “This contribution will allow us to take a major step forward in ensuring a pathway for junior athletes to compete and thrive on the world stage.”
A lifelong champion of grassroots development, Buckley has made numerous historic contributions to Canadian cycling, fueling development programs through Club 1882 and providing ongoing support to development trade team Ignite Junior Cycling. A former medalist at the Junior Canadian Road and Track Cycling Championships, Buckley has also played a pivotal role in bringing world-class infrastructure to Canada, including his support for the creation of the Mattamy National Cycling Centre in Milton, Ontario, a Pan Am Games legacy venue that continues to shape Canadian cycling.
Reflecting on his latest gift, Buckley stated: “It’s amazing that Canada has produced so many great international male and female cycling champions. Giving junior cyclists exposure to competitive European racing at an early age will help develop even more champions in the future.”
This historic donation also reflects the values shared by members of Les Domestiques; a cycling club composed of business and community leaders committed to advancing cycling in Canada. The Club has played a vital role in raising funds, advocating for sport development, and fostering a culture of giving within the Canadian cycling community.
Buckley’s contribution comes just days after the launch of Cycling Canada’s newest fundraising initiative, the 1882 Collective. This initiative, composed of Cycling Canada-affiliated clubs and trade teams, aims to build sustainable financial support for the sport across all levels. Within this framework, Club 1882’s Gold Tier celebrates individuals who contribute $50,000 or more toward Cycling Canada’s mission.
For more information about Cycling Canada’s fundraising initiatives, visit cyclingcanada.ca/1882collective.
