World-Class Cycling Returns to Prince Edward Island with Tour de PEI
CHARLOTTETOWN – Prince Edward Island’s seaside villages and idyllic countryside will be transformed into Canada’s most exciting new cycling destination with the return of Tour de PEI from June 8-12.
The inaugural race was named Road Event Organizer of the Year by the
Canadian Cycling Association in 2007. The event is now attracting a
growing amount of interest from athletes around the world.
One hundred female cyclists are expected to participate in the five-day,
five-stage race. The new route highlights the Island’s scenic
countryside and coastline for thousands of spectators and 600,000
television viewers who are expected to tune into a feature presentation
of the race. Media coverage reached one million households during last
year’s event.
The participating athletes will cross scenic but challenging terrain
covering a total of 403 kilometres, including a 120 kilometre-long race
across the hilliest regions in central PEI.
A highlight of the race will take place on Monday, June 9, when cyclists
will race in a time trial across the 12.9-kilometre-long Confederation
Bridge. The bridge will be closed between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on that
day.
Scotiabank is again helping make Tour de PEI possible in 2008.
Two special events are planned on the final day of the race, Thrusday,
June 12. Children who pre-register will have the opportunity to race on
the professional route in front of thousands of spectators. After the
final awards ceremony at 7 p.m., the Confederation Bridge Concert Series
will begin with a free concert featuring New Brunswick’s Chris Colepaugh
and the Cosmic Crew and PEI’s Tim Chaisson. The free concert will take
place on the steps of the Confederation Centre of the Arts.
Tour de PEI is made possible in-part through funding from ACOA, Tourism
PEI, Scotiabank, Confederation Bridge and many others.
For more information, visit our website at www.tourdepei.com
May 7, 2008
Posted in: Canada