Following the hugely successful inaugural event, Velothon Wales is returning to Cardiff on 22 May 2016, offering riders the unique opportunity to cycle the spectacular 140km on completely closed roads.

Over 18,000 riders will roll across the start line in the heart of Cardiff next year – and British Cycling members have an exclusive opportunity to book their place before the event goes on general sale.

A priority entry window for British Cycling members is open until midnight on Sunday 22 November and entries are available at a discounted price of £59 (usually £65). Enter here.

Following the priority period, general entries for the sportive will go on sale from 9am on Monday 30 November. The event is expected to be a sell-out once again, as over 20,000 people have pre-registered their interest.

Full details of the 2016 route and road closures will be released in early 2016, however it is likely to be similar to the spectacular 140km route in 2015 - which was rated as excellent by 76% of participants.

Run 4 Wales

This year’s event will be delivered by Run 4 Wales, the major events team behind the Lloyds Bank Cardiff Half Marathon and the forthcoming IAAF/Cardiff University World Half Marathon Championships, Cardiff 2016.

Matt Newman, Run 4 Wales chief executive officer, said: “We are delighted to be delivering next year’s Velothon Wales.

“2015 was a fantastic event and with our local expertise we believe together we can host an even bigger and better Velothon Wales in 2016.

“As with all new events there are areas where improvements can be made and we will certainly be taking these recommendations on board. Run 4 Wales have a proven track record of delivering high-quality events in Wales and Velothon Wales is an exciting addition to our portfolio.”

UCI

In addition to the popular mass participation sportive, Velothon Wales will also host a UCI sanctioned 1.1 professional road race which is expected to welcome some of the world’s biggest teams and riders.

The sportive has the continued backing of the British Cycling, Welsh Cycling, Welsh Government and the five local authorities involved in the route, Cardiff Council, Newport City Council, Monmouthshire County Council, Caerphilly County Borough Council and Torfaen County Borough Council.

Intensive planning work has been underway since the first Velothon Wales in June this year to minimise disruption to the public relating to the 2016 event, and there will be much earlier and wider engagement with residents and businesses affected, enabling everyone to plan ahead more effectively.

Showcasing Wales

Deputy minister for culture, sport and tourism, Ken Skates, said: “The first Velothon Wales was a unique and exciting opportunity to showcase Wales to the world. 

“It was fantastic to see so many people coming out in support along the route and giving all participants, including those cycling for charity, a warm Welsh welcome. 

“We had some excellent feedback from participants who enjoyed the atmosphere and the event but 2015 was the first time for this major closed road cycling event to take place and we learnt some valuable lessons in terms of minimising disruption to busy communities. With the benefit of experience, we now look forward to working with Run 4 Wales and local partners as they deliver a bigger and better event for 2016. 

“Next year is the Year of Adventure in Wales which will celebrate all we have to offer as an adventure destination.  The Velothon is an excellent opportunity for people to sign up and get training for their own personal challenge and to take part in Year of Adventure 2016.”

Jonny Clay, British Cycling cycle sport and membership director, commented: “Coupling international level road racing and mass participation events has proved to be a very exciting and successful addition to the traditional standalone inspirational road race, and that was again demonstrated at this year’s inaugural Velothon Wales.

“The event is a welcome addition to the cycling calendar and we have been working closely with the organisers to ensure that next year’s event provides an exceptional and memorable experience for the thousands of riders who take part.”

For more information on Velothon Wales, click here.