Tanara Oliveira/Contributor
Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria, a major cycling race hosted by Scotiabank, is expected to draw cycling aficionados from all over the world for the event on Aug. 19.
Participant numbers have increased nearly 20 per cent compared to last year, with 2,300 riders taking part.
“The continued growth of cycling and thus the increase in registrations again this year is outstanding,” said Seamus McGrath, tour director. “With the majority of riders coming from outside Victoria, the event continues to provide an economic impact for the region and shows off the beautiful bike-friendly city.”
Participants in the event have access to carefully-planned bicycle routes that include auto-free streets and properly managed traffic junctions. Riders can enjoy the adventure with unwavering support, which includes provisions for food, water, medical care and technical assistance along the way. With distances from 160 km down to 15 km, it really has something for everyone.
The Tour de Victoria’s appeal goes beyond the bicycle lanes. At the finish line, a carnival and the Spinnakers Beer Garden are waiting for the competitors and fans alike.
“At Scotiabank, we are committed to celebrating and making a difference in the communities where we live and work. We’re excited and proud to once again be presenting sponsor of Tour de Victoria,” said Sophia Pugh, district vice-president of Vancouver Island.
The event’s namesake, Ryder Hesjedal, will return after missing it the previous year.
“I’m excited to be back in Victoria for TdV weekend,” said Hesjedal, in a news release. “Watching the event continue to grow after 12 years, with the hundreds of volunteers who come out to put on this amazing event, makes me proud to call Victoria home.”
Races will start at 7 a.m. in front of the legislature on Belleville Street. By 3 p.m., all riders are anticipated to have finished their rides.
The Tour de Victoria has a variety of paths to meet the needs of cyclists of all ages and skill levels. In the array of route options, cyclists can choose from a variety of distances. These include the challenging Factor route spanning 160 km, the slightly shorter Outway route at 140 km and the moderately demanding Trek Bicycle Store Victoria route covering 100 km. For those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Nordic Fencing route offers a pleasant 60-km journey. Alternatively, riders can opt for the Synergy route, which spans 45 km, or the shorter yet scenic Spinnakers route, measuring 30 km. For those looking for a shorter ride, the World Bicycle Relief route offers a manageable 15 km. Lastly, the Capital Bikes Kids Ride provides a fun and family-friendly option for riders of all ages.
Produced by the Ryders Cycling Society of Canada, a non-profit organization ardently committed to championing and nurturing the cycling culture across the nation, Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria promises to be an event that not only showcases the region’s cycling prowess but also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among cycling enthusiasts.
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