May 28, 2011 (Victoria, BC) – A total of 1,350 riders including several BC celebrities joined Canada’s top roadie, Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Cervelo), for the inaugural Tour de Victoria featuring a 140km, 90km, and a Community ride on Saturday morning. Hockey star Trevor Linden, the legendary Alison Sydor, and local veteran Elite rider Erinne Willock (TIBCO/To the Top) were on the start line along with many others from all over the province including Seattle and Calgary, who joined in to make this first-ever ride a huge success.

Overcast skies greeted riders and the rain held off in downtown Victoria for the start and finish – but it poured during a couple of sections in the middle of the ride. Riders returned to the finish with huge smiles on their faces despite the “buckets” of rain some endured en route. Organizers are reporting lots of positive feedback with many saying the ride was “awesome” and they’ll be back next year.

Check out these photos and visit the TdV Facebook Page for more on today’s ride. Next year’s event is set for June 24th and registration opens tonight! Visit the Tour de Victoria site here.