The 13th annual Ryder Hesjedal's Tour de Victoria was held on Saturday, Aug 20, where they saw their highest ever participation in the ride.

Tour director Seamus McGrath said the ride was sold out with around 2,500 cyclists riding in 10 different distances in what he called a "world class ride."

"The cycling we have on Southern Vancouver Island is some of the best in Canada, if not the world," said McGrath. "It went super smooth, we had incredible weather and everyone had an amazing ride."

He said the raising popularity in cycling in the region has contributed to growing participation in the event, and people of all walks of life and fitness levels are now looking to participate. 

After skipping the ride in 2020 due to COVID-19, the 2021 event saw 2,000 participants, a record for its time, and after seeing 500 more riders participate in the three years since, McGrath anticipates the event will continue to grow.

"I know cycling is on the up-and-up here in Victoria, but also globally," he said. "It's an environmentally friendly form of transportation, it's healthy, it's a great social activity and it's a great way to get out and see the beautiful region we live in."