March 2/23 18:10 pm - Gastown Grand Prix Returns for 50th Anniversary in 2023

Posted by Editoress on 03/2/23
 

On Wednesday, July 12th, elite cyclists from around the world will once again take to the historic cobblestone streets of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood for the return of the Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix.

Photo Scott Robarts

The Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and famous criterium bike races in North America. The last edition of the race in 2019 saw over 200 professional men and women representing 10 nations, which produced the largest competitors' fields ever in Gastown.  Over the years, the international UCI-sanctioned race has attracted North America's top professional and Olympic cyclists, along with over 20,000 spectators. The event, which won Cycling Canada's 2019 Road Event Organizer of the Year Award, is sponsored and operated by Global Relay, a high-tech firm in Gastown that has invested over $2 million in the race since 2012. In June 2014, Global Relay joined forces with Cycling Canada to grow the sport in Canada.

"The cycling community is looking forward to having this historic event return this summer. With the inclusion of a youth race before the pro races, the event will continue to inspire the next generation of cyclists," said Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix Race Director Mark Ernsting.  

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Gastown Grand Prix and a special commemorative celebration is planned to recognize the history of the event.  

BC Superweek organizers would like to thank the cities of Delta, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, and White Rock for their support of the series over the years.