Cyclists from across the globe will once again be in Victoria for the 13th annual Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria on Saturday, Aug. 17.
More than 2,500 cyclists are expected for the event featuring world-class cycling routes and breathtaking scenery throughout Greater Victoria. With registrations up from last year and anticipation that it will sell out, this year’s event is expected to be one of the largest in Victoria's history.
"The continued growth in cycling and the increase in registrations this year are remarkable," said tour director Seamus McGrath in a news release. "With the majority of riders travelling from outside Victoria, the event not only boosts the local economy but also showcases our city as a world-class cycling destination."
Traffic-controlled intersections and provisions for food, hydration, and mechanical assistance will be available along the way, and the race is combined with post-ride festivities and the Spinnakers Beverage Garden, which the public can join for free.
The Tour de Victoria caters to cyclists of all ages and abilities on a variety of bikes, including e-bikes, with eight different distances: 160 kilometres, 140 kilometres, 100 kilometres, 60 kilometres, 45 kilometres, 30 kilometres, 15 kilometres, and the Capital Bikes Kids Ride. The Tour takes riders out through Esquimalt, View Royal, Colwood, Metchosin and Langford, then heading out to Central Saanich and making their way back through Saanich and Oak Bay before finishing back on Victoria's Belleville Street.
The event kicks off at 7 a.m. in front of the Fairmont Empress on Government Street, starting with the 160-km and 140-km rides. Start times for other distances will continue throughout the day, with all participants expected to finish by 3:30 p.m.
VicPD advises Menzies Street will be closed between Belleville Street and Quebec Street from 4 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Belleville Street will be closed between Government Street and Menzies Street from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Government Street will be closed between Superior Street and Humboldt Street from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.; Belleville Street will also be closed between Oswego Street and Pendray Street from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Dallas Road will be closed between Crescent Road and the Hotel Grand Pacific from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Registration, volunteering, and detailed road closure information is available at tourdevictoria.com.
