February 14, 2013 (Gatineau, QC) – Many of the best women cyclists in the world will return to Gatineau for the fourth year this May for the 2013 edition of the Grand Prix Cycliste de Gatineau.

As in previous years, the weekend includes a UCI-sanctioned women’s road race (on May 18) and time trial (May 20) that will be contested by teams from around the world within walking distance of downtown Gatineau.

But international racing is just part of what has become a four-day cycling festival, and the event continues to grow this year by hosting a round of the Coupe du Québec series for young racers and adding a CAN-BIKE skills training day for recreational and utilitarian cyclists.

The Grand Prix weekend also continues to host the Grande Visite Nocturne nighttime bicycle ride (May 17) and provincial-level road races for junior, elite and masters men (May 18).

The weekend also features the Gran Fondo Gatineau (May 19), a timed event for cycling enthusiasts who can challenge themselves on a 51-km or 102-km course on closed roads, taking in some of the finest cycling routes in the region. Registration for the 2013 GranFondo Gatineau opens today.

Finally, the Vélo Village expo area will offer visitors a selection of local cycling retailers, international manufacturers and food and refreshments just steps from the start-finish area on Boulevard des Allumettières. All of this is made possible by the generous support of the City of Gatineau.

“The Grand Prix cycliste de Gatineau is now one of the biggest cycling events in the world,” said Gatineau Mayor Marc Bureau. “This makes Gatineau particularly proud to contribute $55,000 towards this annual rendez-vous. I would like to thank the organizers who, with the help of the partners and volunteers, bring about this great celebration of cycling in Gatineau.”

Stay tuned HERE for more announcements on this exciting event that has something for every cyclist.