Tour de Victoria options range from a 15-kilometre route to a full 160-km tour through Greater Victoria. (Jennifer Letham photo) 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 […]
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