A cyclist’s delight: Tour de l’Île Sunday in Montreal
Posted June 4, 2023 11:20 am.
Last Updated June 4, 2023 6:33 pm.
More than 10,000 cyclists took part in the Tour de l’Île in on a beautiful Sunday in Montreal, officially launching the cycling season.
The event, which began at 9:15 a.m. on Rosemont Boulevard, offered cyclists a 47-kilometre ride through the streets of the metropolis.
Montreal’s biggest and most anticipated cycling event of the year was back for its 38th ride.
“It’s a chance for them to experience the city in a way that they’re not used to,” said Jean-François Rheault, the CEO of Vélo Québec. “To travel by bike, to feel safe away from cars. It gives them something unique that they cannot live for the rest of the year.”
Cyclists got to explore seven boroughs: Rosemont—La-Petite-Patrie, Villeray-Saint-Michel-Parc-Extension, Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Montreal-North, Rivières-des-Prairies-Pointe-aux-Trembles, Anjou and Saint-Léonard.
Cyclists at the starting line of the Tour de l’Ile June 4, 2023. (Diona Macalinga/CityNews)
The finish line was at Maisonneuve Park, and there were activities and musical entertainment along the way.
“It speaks about the cycling culture that we have here in Montreal. The fact that people like to cycle, like to get together,” said Rheault.
“It’s not a race. It’s all about fun. People can travel to their own pace. The goal is really to enjoy the city, see the city in a different way, and enjoy a party.”
Cyclists from Ottawa taking part in Montreal’s Tour de l’Ile June 4, 2023. (Diona Macalinga/CityNews)
The yearly event attracted cyclists from all different backgrounds.
“This is such a great opportunity,” said Joshua Corpus of the Philippines. “Got to hang out with them and tour the city at the same time. I’ve only been here a couple of years, but this is a nice way to see more of it.”
“This is actually only my second time riding in Montreal,” said Alan Zhang, a McGill student from the United States. “So part of the reason why is because they close down the roads. I felt like this is a good way to kind of introduce myself to riding around the city.”
“We get to come to this city and see the whole city with the streets closed and enjoy the city,” said Ottawa’s John Phillips.
Motorists had to plan their days accordingly, with road closures across the island.
Map of Tour de l’Ile trajectory. (Courtesy: Vélo Québec)
