Excitement is buidling as the 2011 Tour de Rock visit to Victoria arrives this week.
With more than 1,000 kilometres and two weeks under their tires, Canadian Cancer Sociey Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock riders pedal the final leg of their journey through Victoria on Thursday and Friday, giving Victorians’ their chance to cheer riders on following their journey.
“The final piece of this is all about family, friends and supporters and people affected by cancer coming out and seeing the riders finish the 1,000-kilometre-long journey that it is representative of the journey of a cancer patient,” said cancer society spokesperson Tracie Clayton.
“It is meant to be a community event to bring people together.”
A quick stop for refreshments at Fairfield Thrifty Foods at 9 a.m. on Thursday (Oct. 6) kicks off the visit, followed by a series of stops Friday (Oct. 7) starting with a 9 a.m. cheque presentation at Esquimalt High school, followed by an introduction from the town crier and a colour party at Esquimalt Plaza at 9:20 a.m.
Hillside Mall, just outside the Tim Horton’s, plays host to the group at 2 p.m. and Trek Bikes at 4:15 p.m.
The entire ride culminates with the grand finale at Centennial Square, starting with a 4:30 p.m. preshow boasting a dance group and the Greater Victoria Police Chorus, followed by chair massages and head shaves by donation and a car and a bike giveaway.
“It is a great opportunity for the final time to say thank you to these people who have donated so much of their time for the last six months and acknowledge them,” Clayton said.