The Tour de Delta is receiving a $50,000 Sport Canada Hosting grant for its road race, it was announced Tuesday at a press conference at municipal hall.
Mayor Lois Jackson made the announcement on behalf of Minister of State for Sport Bal Gosal.
She thanked Gosal, the federal government and the Sport Canada Hosting Program for the financial support for the men's and women's White Spot Delta Road Race.
"This federal grant will make a big difference in helping us provide two premier cycling events," she said.
Jackson also noted both the men's and women's road races are now UCI-sanctioned. The Union Cycliste International is cycling's international governing body.
"This is a huge honour for us."
This will be the first year the women's road race has been sanctioned.
It allows individual riders to earn international points, said Cycling Canada president John Tolkamp. He noted it also allows Canada to earn international points towards spots at the Olympics and world championships.
"We believe Canada is on the cusp of becoming an international powerhouse, especially in women's cycling," he said.
Tour de Delta race director Mark Ernsting noted there were 51 women on the start line last year and there are currently 66 female riders already registered for this year.
Tour de Delta is a part of B.C. Superweek, which features nine races over 10 days throughout the Lower Mainland.
Tour de Delta runs from July 4 to 6 and includes criterium races in North Delta and Ladner in addition to the White Spot Delta Road Race.
Representing White Spot, Ron Toigo said the business is honoured to be a part of Tour de Delta.
