January 1, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – We’re excited to announce the winners of Pedal’s 2010 Cycling Awards, honouring Canada’s best cyclists of the year in many disciplines and categories as voted by our readers. Once again, Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Transitions) was the big winner recognized for his successful road season at the Tour de France and on the ProTour circuit. Hesjedal won a hat-trick of awards as the Best Overall Cyclist (Male or Female), Best Overall Senior/U23 Male Cyclist, and Best Road Senior/U23 Cyclist (Male or Female).

In 2010 Hesjedal’s highlights included placing fourth on two stages at the Tour and finishing 7th overall; he won the final stage at the Tour of California; came second at Amstel Gold; placed third at the Montreal Pro Tour; and was ranked 8th overall in the world.

Thanks to all of the Pedalmag readers for following and voting for me in 2010. It’s always a huge compliment to be chosen by the fans! – Ryder Hesjedal.

Track super star Tara Whitten, who won two World titles and four podiums at the Commonwealth Games, claimed the Best Overall Senior/U23 Female Cyclist and Best Track Senior Cyclist (Male or Female) while Catharine Pendrel (Luna Pro Team) took home the Best MTB XC Senior/U23 Cyclist (Male or Female) award again as she won the UCI MTB World Cup overall title.

This was a fantastic year for Canada in cycling and I’m honoured to be a part of that success. Thanks everyone for the votes and congrats to the other winners. – Catharine Pendrel

Alex Cataford and Lauren Rosser claimed the Best Overall Junior Male and Female Cyclist awards while Steve Smith was the definitive winner of the Best DH Senior Cyclist (Male or Female) award following his DH silver medal at the MTB Worlds.

When it came to tallying votes for the Best Cycling Moment/Performance there were many listed but Hesjedal’s TdF performances and 7th overall was the obvious favourite. Honourable mention goes to Whitten’s double rainbow jersey wins at the Track Worlds, and Lauren Rosser’s Junior DH gold at the MTB Worlds.

Congratulations to all winners and readers that voted – this was by far the best voter turnout ever and it’s great to see Canada’s top riders recognized for their fabulous efforts both at home and abroad.

Pedal’s 2010 Cycling Awards

Best Overall Cyclist (Male or Female)
Ryder Hesjedal

Best Overall Senior/U23 Male Cyclist
Ryder Hesjedal

Best Overall Senior/U23 Female Cyclist
Tara Whitten

Best Overall Junior Male Cyclist
Alex Cataford

Best Overall Junior Female Cyclist
Lauren Rosser

Best MTB XC Senior/U23 Cyclist (Male or Female)
Catharine Pendrel

Best Road Senior/U23 Cyclist (Male or Female)
Ryder Hesjedal

Best Track Senior Cyclist (Male or Female)
Tara Whitten

Best DH Senior Cyclist (Male or Female)
Steve Smith

Best CX Senior/U23 Cyclist (Male or Female)
Geoff Kabush

Best BMX Cyclist (Male or Female)
Samantha Cools

Best Paracycling Cyclist (Male or Female)
Robbie Weldon (B) and Lyne Bessette (pilot)

Best Cycling Moment/Performance
Ryder Hesjedal’s TdF performances – 7th overall