July 26, 2012 (Victoria, B.C.) – The Ryders Cycling Society of Canada and City of Victoria are proud to welcome home Giro d’Italia champion, Ryder Hesjedal, for his first public appearance on Canadian soil at a homecoming event in Victoria on Friday, August 10, 2012.

“We’re encouraging the community to come down to Centennial Square and join us as we celebrate Ryder’s historic achievement,” said City of Victoria Mayor, Dean Fortin. “Ryder’s Giro d’Italia win is a stunning achievement for a Canadian cyclist and it’s our chance to show how proud we are of him.”

Victoria residents and cycling enthusiasts will have a chance to congratulate their hometown champion on his historic Giro d’Italia win in May and hear about his experiences at the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and as the lone male road cyclist representing Canada in the London Olympics. The homecoming event will see Ryder walk the red carpet and be recognised by the City of Victoria for his outstanding accomplishment.

Check out Ryder’s Homecoming after the 2010 Tour de France

“Ryder’s win has inspired so many Canadians and helped promote the sport of cycling in Canada tremendously – which is exactly what the Ryders Cycling Society of Canada aims to do,” says the Society’s co-founder, Cody Graham. “Our goal is to support our young riders and help them achieve their dreams and the homecoming event will be a chance to celebrate the successes so far.”

“With Ryder coming from Victoria, the Cycling Capital of Canada, it’s only fitting that we welcome him home in style,” said Graham.

The cycling celebration will benefit Ryders Cycling Society of Canada, who will have commemorative shirts and memorabilia for sale and autographed by Ryder.  Event festivities will feature on stage conversations with Ryder, his coach and family, cycling info booths and bike demos, autograph table, food vendors, DJs and a beer garden.

What: Ryder Hesjedal Homecoming Celebration
Where: Centennial Square, Victoria, B.C.
When: Friday, August 10, 2012, 4 p.m. – 7p.m.