Issued by City of York Council
York’s first big bike ride Sky Ride York, has been hailed a huge success with over 5,500 participants taking part in the event today (14 September 2013).
The event was officially started by Ben Swift from Team Sky and participants enjoyed a traffic free route which passed by Clifford’s Tower, York Minster and Millennium Bridge.
With the chance to also see Chris Froome’s Tour de France winning bicycle, and the Team Sky support car, anyone looking for a cycling-themed photo opportunity was spoiled for choice!
Among the most popular points was York Minster, where professional artists helped riders decorate their bikes, with some fantastic personalised machines emerging from the area; while those who wanted to test themselves both in and out of the saddle took on the mobile climbing wall and cycling fitness tests, with York St John University.
For those without two wheels of their own, free cycle hire was provided by York Sports Village, while adapted bike specialists provided disability bike hire, meaning everyone had the chance to join in.
The event was part of a big two-wheel celebration across the weekend, with York Festival of Cycling also taking place today and tomorrow. As part of this, more family activities and entertainment took place today at Rowntree Park, including stunt shows, taster sessions and try-out areas.
Cllr Sonja Crisp, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: “The event has been a phenomenal success with over 5,500 people of all ages and abilities taking the chance to ride a traffic free route through York.
“Families and friends have enjoyed the many free activities set up for them today and it has given them a unique opportunity to enjoy cycling together and to see even more of our beautiful city.
“We want to encourage people to continue getting involved in cycling events in York, with more opportunities than ever as we count down to the biggest cycling event of all coming to the city, the Tour de France.”
In partnership with British Cycling, the City of York Council is hoping the free event has encouraged more people in York to get on their bikes and ride for fun.
This summer York residents can also enjoy taking part in a series of free guided bike rides with Sky Ride Local.
Guided by friendly British Cycling Ride Leaders along scenic planned routes, they’re a great way to get out and see your local area on two wheels.
With different levels, there are rides for all abilities – whether you’re building your confidence or already comfortable on a bike and looking for a challenge. To book you and your family onto one of these fun local bike rides, visit the Sky Ride website.
To get more women on their bikes, British Cycling’s Breeze network is also coming to York. Breeze is the biggest programme ever to get more women into riding their bikes for fun.
The aim is to help thousands more women feel confident and comfortable about going on a ride, to find out more about Breeze, visit the website.
To find out more about cycling in York and the programme of cycling events being held up to and beyond the Tour de France go to the council website.