July 17, 2018 (Val-d’Or, Que.) – The 50th edition of the Tour de l’Abitibi gets underway July 16-22 in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Founded in 1969 by Léandre Normand this iconic and enduring Tour has become an essential event in the development of Junior riders in Canada and around the world. As the only North American stop out of eight competitions that comprise the UCI Juniors Nations Cup, the legendary Tour de l’Abitibi has bolstered Canada’s stature internationally and hosted over 4,000 riders from 45 countries since its inception. From the first winner, Gerald Rocheleau, back in 1969 to other Canadian greats like Alex Stieda (1980), Pierre Harvey (1975), Eric Van den Eynde (1971 and 1972) and the most recent Canuck to win, David Veilleux (2005), the Tour de l’Abitibi has seen its share of international stars as well such as Michel Zanoli (Ned) winner in 1986 and Americans Bobby Julich (1988 and 1989) and Taylor Phinney (2007). Other top international riders include Laurent Jalabert (Fra), Oscar Camenzind (Sui), Denis Menshov (Rus), Andrew Hampsten (USA), Tyler Farrar (USA) and more. We invite you to enjoy this little trip down memory lane as the 50th edition, featuring 7 stages and a total distance of 600 km, will soon be underway. Check out Léandre Normand’s new book, La Route des Champions, about the Tour de l’Abitibi’s 50-year legacy here.