Close to 2,000 cyclists from all over Canada and the U.S. will take to the streets of Greater Victoria Saturday for Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria, the region’s largest one-day cycling event.
This is the 10th anniversary of the annual event, which offers eight different ride distances for cyclists of all ages and abilities, ranging from 15 kilometres to 160, along with Capital Bike Kids Ride. This year, the ride is presented by Scotiabank.
“It is so exciting, and such a relief, to finally be able to celebrate our 10th annual event with our riding community after having to postpone the ride in August 2020,” said tour director Seamus McGrath, adding organizers made adjustments in keeping with provincial COVID health guidelines. “Thanks to incredible support from the municipalities, police, sponsors, suppliers and volunteers, we will still be providing a safe and amazing atmosphere for everyone.”
Organizers say participants will ride on car-free, traffic-controlled roads, and will receive food, hydration, medical and mechanical support throughout the ride.
Some riders will also have the opportunity to ride the route with Victoria’s own Ryder Hesjedal.
“The forecast is looking great for a fall riding event, the course with its fall colours and ocean views is going to be spectacular and I’m really looking forward to riding with everyone on Saturday,” said Hesjedal.
The event is produced by Ryders Cycling Society of Canada, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting cycling across the country.
Online registration is open until 11:59 a.m. on Thursday. Onsite registration is available noon to 6 p.m. Friday at Trek Bikes Victoria, 338 Catherine St.
Registration for the free Capital Bike Kids Ride can also be done before 1:30 p.m. Saturday. There is no same-day registration for other distances. For more information, go to tourdevictoria.com.
parrais@timescolonist.com
