THE WORDS "AWARD WINNING" MAY JUST APPLY HERE
ver the past 40+ years that we've been working hard to earn your trust and business we've won many awards and kudos... From our SIA (Snow industries Association) award for Canadian Retailer of the Year to our most recent accolades as Uptown Magazine's Best Bike Shop in Winnipeg (as voted by their readers) we never stop working to be the best we can be. Never taking your business for granted.

2007 RETAILER OF THE YEAR
Mike and JF were testing Nordica skis at Sunshine Village in a foot or so of fresh snow when we got the news.

Every year the Snow sports Industries America honors a retailer from each territory, in Canada and the US. This year we are very much honored that they chose Gord's Ski and Bike as the recipient for Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Makes us feel all warm and fuzzy inside. "SIA is pleased to announce the latest winners of the SIA Canadian Snow Sports Retailer of the Year awards.  Each of these awards recognizes those retailers and reps that have consistently made a significant impact in the snow sports industry.  The Canadian awardees hail from six territories.  All winners were voted on by suppliers and reps in the snow sports industry." Needless to say we're quite honored that our hard work and dedication to doing it right by you has been recognized.

Of course this would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our amazing customers and our tremendous reps and suppliers... Not to mention our sensational staff. We read about this in a general communique from the SIA and we're still wondering what kind of toaster they give out with this distinction. Hopefully it's a four-slice model.

If you haven't been to Gord's in a while, drop on by, see what all the hubbub is about. We'd love to get to know you and show you around our new second location on Kenaston.

OVERWHELMING SUPPORT!
As some of you now know... there was a period of time in October of 2008 (15 days to be precise) when our beloved Gord's was ... how shall we say... Bankrupt. At the time, when all was bleak and hope was slim that JF would be able to save Gord's ski and Bike, when all that would force us to hang on and to keep on fighting were the many, many emails of support that we had received. It's humbling, actualy, to see just how much Gord's meant to so many of you.

Here are just a few emails from customers, friends, suppliers:

~

Hi JF,

Great news to hear that things are looking up...

As always, let me know if I can help with anything.

Cheers, Darrin

~

Hi JF,
I just heard your news yesterday and was a bit surprised (and sad).
But I hope it lands well for you.
Good luck with the rescue.

Best wishes,

Nat

~

If anyone has the vision and drive to keep gord's dream alive, it's you. If there is anything i can do to help, don't waste a second just let me know.

Danny Gibson

~

hey from the out of towner, i'm really sorry to see gord's close and i'm looking forward to seeing it reopen,

i'm sorry and shocked, i would of never thought it. You're were a very good general manager for keeping your head up and doing everything you've done as well as what you're currently doing. that takes alot of character, will and determination. it's an inspiration to have people like you who dedicate alot of their time to their employment with passion. i'm glad to see that you've found investors that are willing to bring back gord's.

i'm looking forward to hanging out with you again.

take care,
Eric Fillion

~

I know I haven't been biking this summer, and haven't renewed my MTB membership for that same reason. But I heard about Gord's closing and have been keeping as current as possible with what's going on. I applaud you for taking on this challenge! I sincerely hope that you succeed, as you are such a valued person in the biking/skiing community here. It would be a shame to see you go elsewhere.

Kelvin

~

old buddy,

Just read your story and the article in the Sun.. Good luck is all I can say.
If anyone can pull victory from the jaws of defeat.. I know it's you!

Tim R

~

My wish for you is that everything falls into place, you have a fabulous grand opening and business is beyond your wildest imagination!

What Gord's ( and the staff and you in particular) bring to Winnipeg is something that's rare and very difficult to find. A store and staff that's Knowledgeable, stocks decent equipment, treats it's customers with respect and loyalty, and provides people with an avenue to meet and participate with other cyclists/ skiiers.

There will always be other bike stores in Winnipeg, but there is only one Gords, and no other bike stores can take it's place. It's more than just the physical location.

BG

~

Wow, I just saw you on the news, again. 'All this' is quite a nail biter and I'm still cheering for a happy ending.

Keep up the good work!...there's good (riding) weather ahead

Karla

~

If I was a betting man [a religiously optimistic betting man], I would say it’s looking good… I realize there will be no relief until the doors re-open but all of this looks really strong…

Again, if there’s anything I can do to help with the re-launch, please don’t hesitate to ask…

All the best,

Lewis

~

Thanks for the update, good luck to you on this venture. I wish I had a spare 10k to loan you, cause I know you can do it. JF any bike shop you start will succeed. My 10 year old son asked me what is going on and I told him that Gords will reopen we just have to wait.

Wayne

~

JF,

Just caught The National in the Capital... on course in the Ottawa until next Tues. Looks like you've just about got'er done buddy. Congrats. Be sure to advise when it's official. Can't say I had any doubt things would fall into place for you. Always great to see hardwork and perserverance pay off. As they say, Good things happen to Good people...and You and the Gord's team are good people. You're honestly one of a handful of people I know that are truly passionate about what they do.

Garth

~

Read the news in The Sun.  Sooo Sorry.  I’m just an elderly commuter, but I’d never shop anywhere else.  Hope you find some way to come back.

Sincerely,

Jettie Zwiep

~

Right back at ya big guy! I know you are having a real go at trying to save the shop..if anyone can do it you can JF. I'm wishing you all the luck in the world!

Carla MacMillan

~

I don't think you could find one person who isn't personally invested in your quest. If it was just a matter of personal support I have no doubt you'd have a dozen stores here in the city by now.

I hope that everything works out for the best. I know that you are giving it 100% of your dedication, something I have grown to admire over the years.
 
Ryan

~

In all this mess,  the best of luck and I am convinced of a positive outcome my friend

J

~

Hi JF

I bought my bike from Gord’s (Kenaston) this summer because of the way you treated me as a customer.  In fact I visited a number of bike shops and Gord’s was by far the best and most accommodating.  It’s disappointing that you were not able to keep the business going.  Good luck in getting things back up and running.  I look forward to doing business with you again.

Tony

Tony Marchione

~

I hope everything works out for the best for everyone involved. Ruth, Brian, you and the employees.

I'll certainly be looking forward to any new developments and the grand reopening of course.

All the best,

Kevin G.

~

JF

I read about the store closure and I was pretty shocked. I'm sure you're pretty busy trying to get things sorted so I'll be brief. Gord's is a Winnipeg institution and things just wouldn't be the same without the shop and all it brings to the community. I wish you and your partners good luck getting the financing together and hope to visit a revitalized Gord's some day.

Jerry (from Afghanistan)

~

Hey..

Let me know if you need anything! Even if it someone to chat with over a drink!! I still consider Gord's my family!

Gord's is as much a part of my family as it is yours.

Erin

~

Im rooting for you JF, your hard work over the years will be rewarded - im sure of it. Your a good man and you deserve better than this.

My thoughts are with you and everyone at Gords.

Alabama

~

Hey JF,

I’ve been caught up in classes but just got fully caught up on all this business. This past summer with the club was a great experience, surrounded by amazing people. I saw your devotion to Gord’s, the club, and the sport. Surrounded by such great energy, you can’t go wrong. Just think: W.W.B.D. (What Would Brett [Favre] Do?)

If there’s anything I can do, let me know.

JT

~

Hey JF,

So it's 3:30am and I can't sleep. It's great to hear all the feedback. We have way more supporters than the ones we hear from. Hoping I can go back to serving all our loyal and generous customers very soon. Everything sounds real good so far. Let me know if I can help out with anything.

Oh here's one for ya...."Like a grub worm we have eaten all the leaves on the tree and now lie wrapped in a cocoon awaiting our beautiful emergence as a gracious butterfly". (This is super lame I know so don't publish it...but at 3:30am it seemed to fit)

Hope "IT" happens today...I'm just eager to crack the Bubbly!!! Best Of Luck Man....Keep us posted.

Cheers and Chin Up
Jared

~

Hey guys,

It is probably the most unique team I have ever worked with. There is a ridiculous amount of trust in that place with all the staff team. I never worry. It is such a great feeling.

I just wanted to say thanks for all you are doing in attempts to save Gord's. I have come to know and love the business and love being there and even though it is my part time job and I don't make a lot there compared to other things I could do, HOWEVER, I cant imagine working anywhere else. It is my passion, my friends and pretty much my family. It is a company that believes in what they do the way I DO. Everyone there as a team are all phenomenal staff and it is the one place I feel safe in the world to think I can give and give and give and give, and I never have to worry cause everyone is the same way. Everyone is just as willing to give back. Everyone cares about what they do there. That is why it is the best in the business.

I just wanted to say thanks for all your tireless efforts. you've kept us in the loop the entire time and I just want to say thanks to all of you for that and for being open about what you are doing and what is going on so that we can do our best to help in what little ways we can.
 
I wish you the best in the fight. We are thinking of you guys constantly.

Jenn W

~

Good Luck JF.  I'm sure all will go well.  After all, aren't you really the Gord in "Gord's".  Even if this endeavor isn't successful, you have a whole bike club that will support any bike shop you run or own.             

Sincerely,  

Tony Nascimento

~

Jean-Francois Ravenelle,

I am a long time customer of your and was incredibly sad to hear the news about you having to close your doors. I always looked to your staff for advice on products, dominantly boarding related, and was never disappointed.

I truly hope that this is only a short-term set back for you & your staff. I wish you all the luck in the world!

Respectfully,

Amanda Shyiak

~

I've been loosely following the situation on Facebook. Sounds like you've had quite the roller coaster ride. I think your passion and vision will carry you. I hope things work out for you soon. Keep me posted...

-joe

~

Hi JF
Just thinking about you and wishing you the best.

I know you have the drive and dedication to pursue your dreams...everyone has a special gift and you have so much to share with others and are so loved. Deep down inside you know this..so hang in there. Wonderful things are on their way!!

Take care
Susan

~

GO HARD OR GO HOME!!! It has always being a good saying to live by...here we go!

I'll be thinking about you guys all day. Good karma.

Jan

~

It's all happening for a reason. You'll look back on it and see it as the brightest time of your life.

Live long and prosper my young Jedi.

Steven Gall

~

Good luck brother!! Swing away.

Rod

~

I just wanted to say thanks again for all of you that are assisting in ressurecting Gord's.
I miss my home. *SNIFF* I am so thankful for all of those that are fighting to save Gord's.
I cant imagine those of you that have been there for years and how you must feel.
I cant wait to go home. GO TEAM GO!

J

~

Hey JF,

Je voulais juste te laisser savoir que je pense à vous et c'est super triste que Gord's a fermé ses portes!  I will keep my fingers crossed that everything works out! 

Michelle M

~

bonne chance J-F!

Je te souhaites sincèrement que tu réussisses ton projet!

Sebastien Dell

~

JF,

Sorry to hear about Gord's filing for bankruptcy. It is nice to know that you are trying to get a plan together to buy the company.

I hope it all works out for you and all the staff at Gord's.

If you ever just wanna grab a beer and have a distraction from all this stuff, you can give me a call and we can hang out...

Cheers,

Keith.

~

Hi JF

I know how hard we work so when I say good luck , I feel you are going to put it together.

Lorne

~

JF

A wise man once said go big or go home.

Dave McWilliams

~

Yikes, I hope you are ok JF. You are a good friend and "the Dooleys" hope you make out alright.

Wayne and Crew

~

Hey, whoa, yikes, wow. Sounds like some things are in the works to resuscitate, hope everything works out.

Brian :)

~

Good luck my friend. My thoughts are with you guys! Wish I had more than thoughts to offer to help out, but that will have to do for now!

Paul

~

Wow. Shocking news. I never would have suspected.

When the dust settles and I look forward to the Grand Opening party of JF’s Cycle Paradise. (come up with a better name than that willya?)

-Rick.

~

Hey JF,

Heard the news Fri night and couldn’t believe it. Remember, all things happen for a reason and I know you and your team will make this happen. If there’s anything I can do to help out a great friend let me know.

Jeff N

~

Hi,
I can't tell you how delighted I am that you are moving toward success in refloating the business. Again, I wish you all the best. I'll come in and see you when you reopen and will be more than happy to give you any help you that I can. Did I ever tell you that I had taken my level II? I should be due for some new equipment this year.
Best,
Nick

Nicholas Hirst
CEO
Original Pictures Inc.

~

Hang in there JF, everything will work out and then the loyal customer base will step up to help keep the intitution that Gord's is alive and kicking well into the fututre.

Mike Two

~

Wow,

That's quite the rollercoaster! I'm keeping you in my thoughts and wishing you good luck and all the best in this endeavour. I was going to say congrats, but is that appropriate when the business you were employed with files for protection?

Anyway, good luck in this, I'll be hoping everything goes well for you. Unfortunately I'm not in a position where I can offer you some coin to help out with this, otherwise I would; but if there is any other way I can help let me know.

Regards,

Brian G

~

Obviously I heard... and if there is ever ANYTHING at all that I could do or help with PLEASE let me know.. aside from that if you are ever up for coffee you just let me know:)

miss you - and still a big fan of you

Sarah Ennis

~

Hey JF!
Sounds like you are in the middle of a shitstorm without an umbrella! How did your CBC interview go? What is your next fight? Hang in there!

Mo

~

Hey JF,

I was a little bit in denial and didn't want to believe that "IT" could actually happen. I can't imagine what you have gone through in the past few and months. All things happen for a reason, and something good will come of this... a better than ever Gord's.

Janet Jones

~

Sorry to here the news, I hope you can put it all back together, You guy's did alot for biking in this city. If you get going again, I'll buy something.

Mark Kowalski

~

Hi JF,

Sorry to hear the sad News. But one as your self has stepped up to the plate! Keep that Dream alive and hold that torch high! The vision will live on with friends and supporters faith in you! All my best and I look forward in seeing you at the Grand opening of the ( All New Gords Store ).

Just one of your supporters

Rob Craig
( Fort Garry Brewing )

~

Best of luck to you JF, we are sending you all our Wisconsin Dairy good karma!

Chip Camillo (Dynastar USA)

~

JF

Good luck from Germany!

Pierre (Nordica Canada)

~

I was very disappointed to hear in the news last night about the insolvency at Gord’s. I have been a loyal customer for over 15 years. I have done all my family biking and skiing with you. How could this happen?

I wonder if anyone would consider restarting the business as a Coop. I bet there are many loyal customers like myself that would be willing to invest. I would.

Would appreciate a reply soonest.

Ed Richmond

~

You're not dead yet.

Long live Gord's!

Good luck,

Karla

~

Holy JF

This is crazy!
Keep me posted...Let me know how I can help...shit!

Kathy K

~

Dear JF

I am so sorry.

I heard you on the radio this AM but before that I said to the kids how much I liked “your” store as it was such a social place that I liked to visit as well as shop at.

And you are my connection to Matt as well.

I am thinking positive thoughts as you get your ducks lined up and will certainly attend the grand re-opening. You deserve a break here and I hope that some of those with deeper pockets than me realize how important a part of the Winnipeg recreation scene that you are.

Hang in there. Susan.

~

Hi JF,

This is Michael writing this time. Lor showed me your note.

Know, too, that we support you and wish you all the best. This came as quite a shock to us.

Take care and keep us posted on your progress.

"Uncle Mike"

~

HI JF

I am so sorry that all of this has happened.

Take care and I look forward to hearing from you. My heart is out there for all of you.

Luv Ev

~

Hey JF

I just heard the news. I'm very sorry to hear that Gord's had to be yet another victim of the economic distress that we are facing right now. I hope that you and your group can put together something that may be able to save the thing. I knew you guys are working really hard to try and keep it afloat. Also, send my deepest sympathies to the whole staff, they were a great group to work with, and I know being out of the job can be one of the most stressful events in a persons life. On the plus side, farmers almanach says we should have a cold, snowfilled winter. So at the very least, we can ski, hard.

peace

Colin

~

Hi Bro,

Sorry to hear. I am sure you will get things up and running sooner than later. Hang in there! Looking forward to seeing the new Grand opening - virtually of course…

With Love,

Iklo (my sister)

~

Hey JF

As always I wish you the best. I hope everything works out for you!

Lorilee

~

OMG! Sorry to hear. I'm sure your loyal customers will be supportive.

Again - OMG!!

Wish I could help. Good luck to you and your team.

Kristy

~

Wow...

That is truly sad to hear, espec. at this time.

From the outside, I could kinda sense something not quite right...and further with the times we've been in for quite awhile - it's tuff, if not near impossible to be an independent.

Keep fingers crossed & hope for the best...

Kelly Rose

~

Good Luck, I really hope things go your way.

Regards

Angela Ciccia (Head Canada)

~

This is a truly moving story. We know that a lot of our dealers are facing a highly competitive market .

We all have families , hopes and dreams and obligations . We have always wanted to support the folks who faced the banks as we did.

Just remember when the big stores fall, they fall harder and it hurts more.

Hope that you continue in the ski trade as this is a truly Canadian sport. Thanks for sharing this story. Come see us at the next show, we will follow your trail wish you much success. Having an honest and energetic staff will be one of your best investments.

Joan (Paris Glove)

~

I had heard a rumour you were looking to buy back at BTAC but I did not know Brian was in financial trouble.

Thanks for the update.

Best of luck with acquisition

Brian (Swagman)

~

DAMN JF

It seemed to have happened so quickly!! I guess the last time we spoke was at Interbike 2007 and things seemed to be going well. You mentioned to me at this point in time that you were in discussions with Brian to buy a portion of the business and things seemed to be going as planned. As I can imagine how difficult is was being at BTAC discussing this issue with all the reps and credit managers.

Anyhow, keep your chin up maan and things always seem to work themselvs out. As I have always said.....good things happen to good people!!!

Best of luck with the potential new venture

Best Regards,

Creig Hart (DT Swiss)

~

I am sop sorry to hear that Gord's is in bankruptcy.

We hate to hear about the difficulties of our customers Be safe and thanks for being optimistic.

We look forward to your rebirth and good luck.

Cheers
J (Continental tires)

~

Hi, JF

I hope you're able to secure things as you envision and turn a page on a new start. Please let me know how I can be of help once things get settled.

Regards,

Ron Hogue (CJOB Power 97)

~

JF

I hope that you are able to take all of these poker hands, use them as knowledge and deal the ultimate lay down.
I have confidence in you.

I'm sure you and your plan will be a success, we are looking forward to the future.
Cheers bud.

Peter Appleton (Commencal bikes)

~

Hi JF.

I hope you find a way to put this together. Keep us posted.


Norm Craige (Burton)

~

JF,

Thanks for the update, I can only imagine the rollercaoster ride you have been on.

Know that I still have faith in what you and Rob and everyone else is doing.
I have faith that everything will get sorted out.

Cheers
Kevin (Nordica)

~

Wow

Sounds like a lot of fun.
I wish you luck my friend.

Rob Zonneveld (Burton)

~

Best of luck in upcoming endeavours.....hoping that some deal can be made, and that Gord's will once again rise to the top of local mountain biking / skiing sales and service!! Thanks for updates, as I'm sure the 200+ members in the bike club are interested.

DALE!!!

~

Hey JF,
I'm sorry to hear what happened, and hope everything will fall into place for you and everyone at Gords.

Thanks,

Mike Webinger

~

Good luck with the acquisition… I’m terrified of what a prick you’ll be once you actually OWN the joint!!

David Lewis

~

The pic you posted on Facebook....the one with the caption "Someone divided by zero".....should be replaced with "Someone under-capitalized their business expansion"!

Gords is too much of a Winnipeg institution to disappear and I know that if anybody can make it rise from the ashes it is your good self and Rob....don't know the others involved.

I have investments tied up in stocks so for me, and countless others, it's a waiting game.....otherwise I would have approached you with cash. The only thing I can do in the meantime is wish you and your team success and a quick solution to this situation.

Can't wait for the party !!!!!

Steve

~

Excellent. Wow what a roller coaster ride this has been for you!!!!. But I'm thinking that possibly this may be better for you in the long run....

I look forward to the reopening of the Stores!

Had I not lost over the last few days on the stock market, I'd be in as well.

Could be a movie in this story. You shared bits of Montreal and I certainly could not begin what you went through at the trade show.

Certainly sounds like that there will be better adventures ahead for Captain Ravenelle and his swarthy band of pirates.

Treasure for all !!!

Shawn Bergeron

~

Hey JF,

Looking forward to the Grand Opening of whatever it will be called!

Steve Biggs

~

Hi,

I wish you all the best. If there is anything I can do, just let me know.

Best,

Nick Hirst

~

Holly shit!

Good luck dude!

Mike Killick

~

JF

YOU will prevail my brother from another mother. It is SO obvious this is your dream and it's in your heart..a part of you really. It will happen - just stay strong. I know people will see your true dedication, loyalty and obsession with this..most people would have jumped on the pirate ship by now and took off to the Caribbean...you sticking this out says a lot about your character....

May the force be with you!

Tamara :)

~

Hi JF,

It’s very distressing to hear of the Gord’s credit crunch. I hope you can save it.

Thanks,

Bruce Eyford

~

So here i am a completely self-absorbed student going off about my my projects and due dates and stressing over trying to balance my life with my student life and complaining about it to you.

Then today i open up the paper and who do i see... YOU, and from what i gather your stresses far exceed my poor little student ones. So i feel compelled to return the advice you suggested to me... 'remember: "inhale... exhale". I'm sure everything will turn out fine or at the least send you along a new path that you didn't expect to take which in my life always proves to be a beneficial to the overall scheme of things.

I hope you have a good weekend! As for myself i'm off to Art and Sole tonight to help out.

take care,

Meaghan

~

Hi JF.

I am very sorry to hear that gords is in difficulty.
I hope this opportunity for you and the team members comes to fruition ,

Good luck with this.

Doug Christie

~

Hey JF,

So sorry for taking so long to get back to you!

Looks like you’ve put in a great deal of work, hope you can make things work out.

You can count on us as loyal Gord’s (actually you could change it to JF’s) customers.

Let me know if there’s ever anything I can do to help.

Thanks

Ron Penner

~

Hi JF,

I really do believe that you're the heart and soul behind Gord's. The things I've seen you done to build a community around the store is amazing.

I wish you the best of luck, and really hope that you can pull this through. Afterall, I am looking forward to Panorama next year.

Ming

~

JF,

That was a very honorable way of noting the situation. You have just impressed me like I some would not have expected.

I too, feel the need for service, reputation, respect, passion & compassion offered - and the legacy of Gord's should soldier on. It's ironic that just the other day, I mentioned that it feels we are a city (province) void of skiing 'cause of circumstances.

It's not just an old fable - If we all knew then what we know now...

The loss of Gord's would have a very sad and senseless effect on the sport.

Chin up JF...

Kelly

~

JF

Good Luck,

Keith Brodski (Rocky Mountain Bikes)

~


More as I dig through my emails...