British Cycling launches national disability circuit race series
Posted: 16 January 2009
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British Cycling disability initiatives
British Cycling has launched the inaugural National Disability Circuit Race Series for 2009.
This exciting new series of races will create opportunities for para-cyclists with aspirations to race the Paralympics, and will be watched closely by British Cycling's coaches in order to find new riders with the ability to compete at London 2012.
The racing format, decided in consultation with the riders, will endeavour to give those with all disabilities the opportunity to race on an even playing field in an attempt to make the racing fun, exciting and fair.
The racing will take place on six varied courses, closed to motorised traffic, throughout the country this summer.
Opening race
The opening race of the series will be promoted by the Salt Ayre Cycling Association as part of a full day of cycling at Salt Ayre, Lancashire, on 7 June. As well as the race for riders with a disability, there will be non-disabled races for a range of ages and abilities from novice to elite riders making this a full day of cycling for all.
The second race takes place on 28 June at Darley Moor in Derbyshire and will also include the Disability and Handcycling Road Circuit Championships. The winner of this race will become 2009 British Cycling Disability and Handcycling Road Circuit Champion, as well as gaining valuable series points.
Castle Combe, near Chippenham in Wiltshire will host the third race of the series on 12 July. Castle Combe is no stranger to disability cycling and the large track should see some great racing.
The fourth race is will be at Fowlmead, Kent, on 18 July. Those making the trip to the South East will have the opportunity to enjoy a full weekend of racing, with the circuit race on Saturday 18 July and the National Disability Time Trial Championships on Sunday 19 July.
The fifth race will take place around the town centre roads in Warwick on the same day as the top level non-disabled Elite Circuit Race meaning a top class course, big crowds and an exciting atmosphere.
The final race will be held at Hillingdon in West London and is sure to see high drama and close racing as riders battle it out to become the National Circuit Race Champion.
Paralympics
British Cycling Paralympic coach Chris Furber will be watching the series closely in order to scout for new talent in preparation for London 2012. With such a high level of success in Beijing, the pressure is on to find the next batch of para-cyclists with the talent to win gold medals. With this fresh talent coming through Chris hopes that, as with the Olympic cyclists, pressure will be put on the current GB riders to maintain their place in the team.
Link: 2009 Disability Calendar or Entry Forms