Event: 22-23 June 2013
Location: Bath Recreation Ground, William St, Bath
Last year, the team at Bike Bath approached the Yorkshire Regiment, based at nearby Warminster and invited them to enter a team of cyclists to complete one of the 30, 60 or 100 mile rides in this weekend festival of cycling. However, the Regiment's imminent departure on a 6 month tour of Afghanistan meant they were unable to join the inaugural cycling event.
Fast forward to April 2013, and the team from Bike Bath are delighted that not only are the Yorkshire Regiment entering a team of cyclists but they will be supporting the 100 mile rides, a.k.a.the Bath Centurions, and inviting other military units to enter the event. The Battalion's, Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Zac Stenning stated,
"Following a very challenging tour of Afghanistan in 2012, we are committed to getting all our soldiers on a range of exciting adventures this year. Bike Bath is part of our summer of cycling challenges and we are delighted to be a part of this exciting event"
Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Major, Duncan Wyeth explained that, "The popularity of cycling is very high in the Yorkshire Regiment and across the British Army, and to be involved in Bike Bath is a great opportunity for soldiers from the region, but also further afield, to take part. The fact that, on the Saturday, the route passes the Regiment's own doorstep in Warminster means we can give all riders, an insight into our special military world where we'll be organising the feed stations and providing one or two other surprises for the riders. We would be delighted if cycling teams from other military units could join us over the weekend with the possibility of them becoming Bath Gladiators,that is completing both 100 mile rides on the Saturday and Sunday."
Katie Robbins from Bike Bath said, "The involvement of the soldiers from the Yorkshire Regiment adds another fantastic element to the weekend event. We are really grateful for the support of all our key sponsors: Charles Stanley Direct, Cyclescheme, road.cc and now that the Yorkshire Regiment and know that all those taking part will have a great experience. In addition, we are working with over 30 different charities who are entering teams to raise funds for their worthy causes and have been delighted with the support from local food and drink businesses who are supporting our feed stations."
Bike Bath 2013 will run over the 22-23 June weekend. A "Cycling weekend to remember" championed by Charles Stanley and friends. Registration is now open through the Bike Bath website for rides of 20, 30, 60 and 100 miles.
The routes on Saturday head to the south of Bath and the course is described as "rolling" and will all incorporate Britain's longest cycle tunnel which recently opened in Bath. £1 from every rider is being donated to Sustrans the charity behind the tunnel. All routes will have a series of feed stations which feature gourmet produce from local food and drink suppliers and first aiders and mechanics will be on hand should there be any problems.
For those new to cycling, the team from Bath-based Cyclescheme, will have an electric bike display as well as technical advisors at the start and finish area offering advice.
Michelin starred chef, Rob Clayton, will again prepare the end of ride food available to all riders. In the evening, the "road.cc Celebration of Cycling" will take place at Bath Rugby Clubhouse from 6-9pm with speakers, Dr Ian Walker, a cycling psychologist and Andrew Denham, the founder of the award winning Bicycle Academy at Frome plus one more cycling personality who is yet to be announced. This event is free to all Bike Bath riders.
On both days, all riders will receive a limited edition print from award winning illustrator "Simon Spilsbury, from Larkhall in Bath, as well as receiving a post ride gift bag.
On Sunday, routes of 30, 60 and 100 miles head north to the Cotswolds, with another array of fantastic feed stations. Those completing the Bike Bath Gladiator (both 100 mile rides) will receive a congratulatory gift from Bath Ales.
The 2012 event was according to riders:
- "Fantastic event. Great route and signage, excellent feed stations"
- "A brilliant event"
- "100 miles done! Furthest I've ever cycled, very happy to make it to the end, stunning route, perfectly marked, thanks"
- "Well done Bike Bath organisers. Route well signed (if punishing - 160 km, 2400m climbing) and plenty of food."
You can register for the event by visiting www.bikebath.co.uk or contact the team via facebook, twitter or e-mail info@bikebath.co.uk
