For all the event organizers, the year 2021 was marked by a certain ambivalence: the happiness of being involved in popular activities, but also the many challenges they faced in seeing their projects through. Health insecurity, the labour shortage and the need to “reinvent” all operating methods in order to present events in accordance with public health measures were the main factors that complicated the work of our team over the past few months.
Despite a strong headwind, Vélo Québec decided to hold four major events – the Metropolitan Challenge, Grand Tour, Tour la Nuit and Tour de l’Île de Montréal – all of which required great organizational resilience and innovation in dealing with the various constraints related to the current context. I am very proud of all the members of the Vélo Québec team, who were able to work together, push their limits and reinvent themselves in order to give thousands of cyclists of all ages a safe, festive cycling experience.
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the members of the Vélo Québec ecosystem, as well as all our partners, sponsors, volunteers and participants who have continued to support us during these uncertain times. I am deeply touched by your participation and loyalty.
I remain more convinced than ever that our events are helping to create a stronger cycling culture. The Tour la Nuit et Tour de l’Île allow thousands of cyclists to ride in complete freedom and gain a different perspective of the city. What’s more, they give novices and children an opportunity to discover urban biking and pedal further than usual, buoyed by the enthusiasm of a huge peloton.
I would like to reiterate that the year 2021 will be a unique and memorable one. What will stay with me is the sight of thousands of smiling faces as people came together to share the joy of biking. This gives me the energy and ambition to pursue the mission of Vélo Québec and plan for the year 2022, which will be just as memorable. A huge thank you for all your support.
Jean-François Rheault
President and CEO