February 8/06 3:48 am - Toronto Bike Week Ride

Posted by Editor on 02/8/06
 

Giro T.O. Ride

Bicycling may not be a cure all for our modern-day problems, but it can do much to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities. As a means of transportation, the bicycle scores well; it's non-polluting, human-powered, and it takes up little space. In the Campbell Survey on Well-Being in Canada, conducted by the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute, cycling ranked fourth in popularity. (It was topped only by walking, gardening, and swimming.)

Unfortunately, by this time of year, most of us have given up on our New Year's resolutions to get fit, and instead have taken up space in front of the television. According to the 2000/01 Canadian Community Health Survey, 56% of Canadians (20 and older) are inactive, and the proportion of those physically inactive only increases with age.

In recognition of the importance of physical activity, Villa Charities has launched a new initiative this year called Giro T.O. Scheduled for May 28th, the cycling event will kick off Toronto Bike Week, and will be a 70 km fundraising ride through the streets, parks and trails of Toronto.

Inspired by Il Giro d'Italia, the legendary international cycling event on par with the Tour de France, Giro T.O. will be a challenging, thrilling ride in diverse urban cycling terrain, touring well-known neighbourhoods throughout Toronto. The new Giro promises to be a truly unforgettable tour of the city, and will also promote urban cycling as part of an active and healthy lifestyle!

Villa Charities is a charitable organization that is the umbrella to: Villa Colombo Services for Seniors, Columbus Centre, VITA Community Living Services and Villa Colombo Vaughan.

For more information, and to register or sponsor a rider for this exciting event, visit www.girotoronto.com or call (416) 789-7011 ext. 306. If you would like information on other Toronto Bike Week events, please visit www.toronto.ca/cycling/bikeweek/.