March 17, 2006 – Many months of labour and love have resulted in… a website – www.GiroToronto.com. The first annual Giro T.O. aka “a Tour of Toronto” is a 70km urban cycling adventure – with an Italian spin. It is a route that is quite literally shaped like a boot. It is a landmark tour of Italian-Canadian settlement in Toronto, a glorious day of fresh air, exercise and food. And it’s happening Sunday, May 28.

Riders aged 18+ raise $500 or more and then ride a 70km course that tours all the ‘Little Italys’ of Toronto, and other neighbourhoods and environments that make the city so diverse, including: Corso Italia, Forest Hill, The Financial District, University of Toronto, York U, Humber River, the CNE, the Waterfront Trail, and many more. Riders will see the entire city north to south, from the Lake up to Steeles Ave, in a single morning. All funds raised go to Villa Charities family of community services(www.villacharities.com).

In support of the Giro T.O. artist Francesco Galle – of College Street’s Little Italy – is putting on a show at the Columbus Centre, April 6-May 31, called Happy Bike People in Giro. The reception is on April 6 at 7pm. That night Francesco is donating a work of art inspired by the Giro T.O. theme of Italians, bicycles and Toronto. (Check it out http://www.villacharities.com/main.asp?View=GirotoHome&Giro=GiroArt ) Please come out and enjoy Galle’s colourful, whimsical work. Sponsors are needed. Volunteers are needed. Most important, RIDERS ARE NEEDED. Take up the challenge, then tackle the city streets on May 28. Register now at www.GiroToronto.com. Online registration is EASY and online fundraising is FAST and convenient. For sponsorship opportunities please contact Jordana Appugliesi at 416-789-7011 x321.

Grazie mille,
Pat Tanzola Special Events – Giro di Toronto Villa Charities Foundation Tel: 416-789-7011 Ext. 306 Fax: 416-789-9387 “To bici or not to bici – that is the question” www.GiroToronto.com