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The Newport Nocturne is Back!

Story posted August 3, 2010 | Event Press Release | Website:
 
After a three year break, Britain’s original floodlit criterium takes to the streets of Newport Shropshire on September 4th.  The popular event normally takes place every two years, but promoter, Mick Jeggo suffered a serious illness last year and the race was postponed. A lap of the partly cobbled 1.2 mile circuit takes just a couple of minutes and with several live bands playing music for all tastes, there is plenty to keep the crowds of up to 14,000 entertained.

Malcolm Elliott, winner in 2007, looks at all the beer he's won and seems to be wondering how am I going to drink all that!

This unique long standing event kicks off with a “Past Masters” race for ex-Professionals. In 2003, a legend in the sport - multiple classic and Tour de France stage winner - Sean Kelly narrowly outsprinted ‘Super-Sid’ Barras for the win.

This years Nocturne will also feature an invitation one lap time trial. On previous occasions, riders such as Jason Queally, David Millar and Geraint Thomas have been persuaded to take part. For the moment, the promoters are remaining tight-lipped on the exact format and on the identity of the participants however, they are promising something “very special”!

What a line up! David Millar, Mark Cavendish, Geraint Thomas and Rob Hayles. The Newport Nocturne is certainly a much loved event, a classic even!

The history lesson
The Nocturne was first run in 1989, '90 and '91 in the heyday for professional cycling and the Nocturnes were played out in front of massive crowds. Unfortunately, a recession meant that some major sponsors were lost and rather than stage a second rate event, it was decided to cancel the 1992 event. Ten years later,  Newport Town Council approached Michael Jeggo to help put the town back on the map.

Their generous grant gave him the foundation to attract new sponsors and re-stage the event. The 2001 race was an outstanding success and attracted over 10,000 fans. Now a biannual event, the Nocturne is a much loved event on the British racing calendar and riders are already talking about what they could do with the beer they may win on September 4.

Malcolm Elliott in 2007 on his way to a solo victory.

Riders wishing to enter the races, can find details of the event on the racing calendar here

Programme:

Elite/1/2 Nocturne Circuit Race 9pm
Invitation 1 Lap TT: 8.30pm
Past Masters Circuit Race 7.15

Related Links
2007 Report: Newport Nocturne