If there was any doubt that Victoria, British Columbia, is the cycling capital of Canada, that should be laid to rest over the next couple of weeks.
The Victoria International Cycling Festival kicks off on Friday 27th with The Harbour Sprints, to be held in front of the provincial legislature.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAjw3Cnk_QI&fe[/youtube]
The premier event, Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria, rolls out Saturday morning, beginning at 7a.m. 1,100 people have signed up for the rides.
The festivities and events continue with films, bike rodeo, bike polo and a classic bike rally on June 5. The festival also Incorporates the Robert Cameron Law Cycling Series – May 28-29, which culminates in the exciting Bastion Square Grand Prix on Sunday. (see VICF link below for a full list of events.
Bike to Work Week kicks off on May 30th, running through to June 5th.
Not that any of this is an excuse to rest on our laurels; Victoria still has a long way to go before it can be called truly bicycle-friendly. A lot more needs to be done to accommodate cyclists on a daily basis.
Let’s see if this coordinated expression of bike love will be followed up by a corresponding government commitment to embracing people-powered transportation.
Still, that’s for another day. For now, let’s bask in velo glory. And let’s not forget all the unsung heroes behind all this fun. Cheers to all the volunteers!
And to help that toast, Spinnakers has brewed up a celebratory ale. I may sip one while following and reporting on upcoming events. Are you planning to attend?
Tour de Victoria | TdV Routes (pdf) | VICF | Harbour Sprints | Cameron Law
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