Go-Ride Confirmed For Tour of Britain

11 September 2009

Nearly 200 youngsters from across the UK have ‘entered' to race at this year's Tour of Britain and will soon have the privilege of competing at this country's most prestigious road race thanks to British Cycling's Go-Ride programme, which helps introduce young people to competitive cycling.

Club teams and school teams of eleven and twelve year olds will battle it out in Italian Pursuit style races at their local stage finish for the title of Club Champion and School Champion, with the best performing teams of the week getting an introduction to a GB Cycling Team Rider as a prize.

The eight stage finishes will take place from 12 until 19 September in York (12.09), Gateshead (13.09), Gretna Green (14.09), Blackpool (15.09), Stoke-on-Trent (16.09), Bideford (17.09) and Yeovil (18.09), with the conclusion of the race in London (19.09).

John Mills, Coaching, Education and Development Director at British Cycling, says: "Over the last six years Go-Ride has become a regular fixture at the Tour of Britain.

"It provides youngsters with a fantastic opportunity to compete on a big stage, experience the thrill of elite road racing and brush shoulders with some of the world's best cyclists.

"As well as inspiring young people to take up competitive cycling, it gives their friends and families a great day out watching some of the biggest cycling heroes in action."

"With Go-Ride coaches, schools and clubs located across the country, British Cycling is working with local communities to develop the sport and find the cycling stars of tomorrow."

For more information about Go-Ride or to find a Go-Ride affiliated school or club in your area, please visit www.britishcycling.org.uk.

Download: Press Release (Word, 500kb)

Contact: abbyburton@britishcycling.org.uk