June 18, 2014 (Amos, QC) – The programming and routes for the 46^th edition of the Tour de l’Abitibi Desjardins, taking place from July 21 to 27 in Amos, were revealed today. After two years in Rouyn-Noranda, the members of the organization committee were delighted to take over and offer new challenges to the cyclists participating in the Tour. This year, the competitors will have the chance to visit Rouyn-Noranda, La Sarre, Malartic, Senneterre, and Val-d’Or, in addition to traveling through a large portion of the area surrounding the city of Amos, during the urban circuit.

Once more, the individual Time-trial and Abitibi Challenge Sprint will be presented, as to offer a high-level sporting challenge for cyclists. While the individual Time-trial will highlight the fastest competitors over a distance of 10 kilometres, the Abitibi Challenge Sprint will give the best sprinters the opportunity to stand out. As pointed out by Bruno Gauthier, vice-president and technical director of the Tour, “Although the Abitibi Challenge Sprint is not a part of the official stages of the Tour, this race will allow teams to identify potential threats early in the week.”

An Important Involvement

Mrs. Suzanne Fortin, president of the Tour de l’Abitibi Desjardins, took the opportunity to introduce the members of the organization committee, who allowed the realization of an event of this magnitude, thanks to their implication. The partnership renewal between Desjardins and the organization was also announced, permitting the Tour to offer an unparalleled experience for all the athletes and trainers traveling to Abitibi.

Let’s Ride

Once again this year, the organization invites the population to join the cyclists, by participation in the famous Desjardins Popular Ride, which will launch the 46^th edition of the Tour de l’Abitibi Desjardins on July 21. As of 6:00 p.m., young and old will ride on the 5.4 kilometer arrival stretch, which will be traveled over twenty times by the competitors as they will arrive in Amos. The criterion’s starting point will be in front of the cathedral, which will also be the point of arrival in town.

A Promising Edition

Sanctioned by the International Cycling Union (UCI), the Tour de l’Abitibi Desjardins is the only of 7 competitions in the circuit of the UCI Junior Nations Cup to be presented outside of Europe. During its historical 45 years, the Tour has welcomed thousands of participants from 40 different countries and continues to be an excellent springboard for cyclists aspiring to compete professionally.