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Michael Barry “Thrilled” to start Tour

Dream come true for Canadian pro cyclist

Michael Barry dreamed of racing in the Tour de France ever since he was a young child growing up in Ontario. Now, as his professional cycling career reaches its final stages, he’s finally getting his chance.

When the 97th Tour de France rolls out of Rotterdam Saturday morning, Barry will be there and a country will be cheering him on. The Team Sky rider is one of two Canadians – the other being Ryder Hesjedal – racing in this year’s Tour.

“Racing the Tour has been a goal since my childhood. So to finally have the opportunity, late in my career, is fantastic. When I found out I was selected I was thrilled,” he said.

As has been the case throughout his career, Barry’s roll in the three-week Grand Tour will be that of a domestic – doing whatever he can to help his teammates. “We have a great group of guys and I am sure we will have fun racing together, as we have since the start of the year.”

Barry has lived in Europe for years, and said this year’s route holds special meaning for him.

“The fact that we race through Annemasse, the town where I lived for two years as an amateur, is something special as I still have many friends living there and know the roads well. In the last week I have had hundreds of emails from supporters throughout the world, and especially in Canada, which has been fantastic and makes the experience all the more special,” he said.