Abernyte’s Alfie George took the yellow jersey at the Youth Tour of Scotland yesterday after four stages of tough racing in his own patch.
The Youth Tour of Scotland is a four day stage race organised by Scottish Cycling for riders aged between 13 and 16 years old. The event which is in its sixth consecutive year has 38 teams competing from all over the UK, Ireland and Isle of Man.
Alfie, 16, was riding for Scottish Cycling North East, however normally rides for Discovery Juniors CC from Dundee. This year was Alfie’s last year riding at the Youth Tour of Scotland before he becomes a Junior.
In the girls competition it was Elynor Backstedt from Team Wales who won the general classification. Elynor, daughter of Magnus Backstedt, former professional cyclist who won Paris-Roubaix in 2004, was a strong rider throughout the competition.
Over the weekend 150 Youth riders took to the roads at Scottish Cycling’s flagship event; there were 20% more girls entries than in 2016.
Alfie George, winner of the 2017 Youth Tour of Scotland said:
“The Youth Tour of Scotland is the best event there is in this country, I can’t fault it and really enjoy it. It was definitely better weather this year too! The last stage is the best stage because it is like a gladiator fight, pushing up the steep hill so many times; you just have to keep going. I will be back to watch and see who takes it next year!”
Sarah Macintyre, Events Manager for Scottish Cycling and organiser of the event said:
“The Youth Tour of Scotland is an event which gets better and better every year and the riders this year have shown some incredible determination, skill and talent. Alfie and Elynor were both very deserving winners.
Scottish Cycling would like to thank Bridge of Earn Community Council of Forteviot and of Forgandenny, also to Forteviot Community for the teas and coffee’s at Stage 1. St. David’s Village also for being so welcoming – and an overall thank you to Perth and Kinross Council.
We would also like to extend thanks to all of the staff at Strathallan School and our volunteers and officials; the Youth Tour of Scotland would not happen without them. We can’t wait for next year already!”
For full reports and results on the Youth Tour of Scotland please see here.
