Plazoleta Jairo Varela welcomed 10,000 cyclists from 35 countries on November 1. The Giro de Rigo started at six in the morning, amid the enthusiasm of riders and supporters. Rigoberto Urán thanked Cali and the Valle region for their welcome. A landslide in Dagua required a route adjustment so the event could continue under safer conditions.
Months of preparation
The Giro’s arrival had been officially announced in March at a press conference in Hotel Aristi. Urán highlighted the international interest this edition was attracting. The city’s sports department also emphasized its value for cycling clubs and younger generations: an opportunity to bring enthusiasts closer to leading figures in the sport and show how cycling can become part of the city’s everyday life and its sporting culture.
Cycling is also a way to discover Cali
The event’s connection with tourism had an earlier chapter in July. Urán explored the historic center and western Cali aboard the municipal sightseeing bus, accompanied by local journalists. The journey ended at the Sebastián de Belalcázar monument. During that visit, the cyclist encouraged Colombians to share their cities’ history and attractions with people arriving from elsewhere, helping visitors discover places they might not already know.
A starting point with Cali’s identity
The square chosen for the start has a story of its own. Opened in 2013, it honors Jairo Varela, the founder and composer of Grupo Niche. It stands between northern Cali and the historic center, opposite the municipal administrative building, at Avenida 2 Norte and Calle 10.
From the square, you can walk to the Bulevar del Río and explore the city center along the water.