6th June 2004 saw another year written down in history for the cyclists as they toured the Island of Montreal in the 20th annual "Tour de l'Ile". The annual cycling "custom" saw about 30,000 cyclists on the 45kilometers. Participants ranged from a 13month old to a couple taking part in their 18th consecutive appearence in the event.
The tour consists of cyclists going though 15 boroughs of Montreal. It is not a race but a tour in which cyclists take from 2-3 to even 6 hours, while taking picnic break in between. Among the most popular tents at Laurier Park, including the lemonade, milk and hotdog stands, was the one offering free massages. Lineups for 10-minute massages lasted a half hour, about the time it took to move toward one of the few portable toilets along the route!
Parc Marguerite-Bourgeoys was also a hot spot for the cyclists. It had a Red Cross First Aid staff tent, a "le lait" tent, and the most popular hotdog stand. Some had their picnic lunch break in the parc while others took a breather, enjoying a dance performance given by equally enthusiastic dancers. I don't know how, but they never seemed to get tired. I wish I had that much stamina.
The tour also saw new and different types of cycles too. Some were modified two wheeled cycles while one was a re-engineered four-wheel bike. The guides were as enthusiastic as the cyclists in showing them the direction and encouraging them.