Government of Canada to support the 30th Tour de Beauce

The 2015 Tour de Beauce kicks off today, with racing continuing until this Sunday. This year marks the 30th edition of the race, and to mark the occasion, the Government of Canada — via Sport Canada’s Hosting Program — is kicking in a cool $50,000 to keep things rolling.

Sport Canada’s boost is part of 2015 being the Year of Sport in Canada, and events like the Tour de Beauce, officials say, show off the best of Canadian athletics to the world. “Each year,” said Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), “the Tour de Beauce attracts cyclists from all over the world. During the Year of Sport in Canada, we will be able to see our Canadian athletes face off against international competition here at home. No doubt their strength, endurance and determination will inspire Canadians of all ages and from all walks of life who have come to cheer them on.” As a prestigious career-making event for under-23 riders, that support — both from the government and spectators alike — means so much more in the case of the Tour de Beauce.

As reported in the most recent issue of Canadian Cycling Magazine, the Beauce has long been a premier stage race for professional continental and regional teams. It’s where North American riders — and those from other continents — can experience a true stage race, with a strong, competitive group of racers flocking annually to the event’s challenging terrain.

This year’s edition of the race certainly sees a strong, competitive field, too. Riding for Optum p/b Kelly Benefit Strategies, Canadian Michael Woods heads to the race straight from the Parx Casino Philly Cycling Classic, where he finished a close second, just one second behind winner Carlos Barbero, also competing at the Tour de Beauce with Spanish team Caja Rural-Seguros RGA.

Other Canadians heading to Beauce, Quebec from Philadelphia include Ryan Roth, riding for Silber, whose 8th place finish saw him cross the Philly Classic finish line with three others riders as part of the second group, all seven seconds behind the lead. The list, of course, goes on.

The government’s support of the Tour de Beauce highlights the overall prestige of cycling in Canadian athletics, with federal aid in previous years including $4.5 million in 2014, funding Cycling Canada’s programs and services. From 2015 to 2016, the government is also supporting 52 cyclists through the Athlete Assistance Program, providing for expenses ranging from living costs to education and allowing those riders to focus on their training.

“Thanks to Cycling Canada, the organizers and the many volunteers,” said Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism and Agriculture) Maxime Bernier, “we have been able to host this important race for the past 30 years. The Tour de Beauce is a must on the calendar of our local cyclists and those from around the world. It is a great opportunity to showcase our region on the international stage and encourage our Canadian athletes.”

The Tour de Beauce runs from June 10 to June 14.