Etape UK ?

25th January 2007

British Cycling confirms major Cyclosportive ride for 07 British Cycling has confirmed that it will offer cyclists a unique opportunity to ride the same route used by Stage 1 of the 2007 Tour de France across East London and Kent.

The event will include entertainments and activities matching its status and profile. In essence the event will mirror the high standards and pedigree of the major continental Cyclosportives such as the famous L’Étape du Tour.The creation of this Cyclosportive provides the UK and, in particular London and the Southeast with a fantastic opportunity to exploit the sporting, health, recreational and travel initiatives associated with cycling in this country.The event will take place exactly one week before Le Tour de France on Sunday 1st July and will accommodate 5,000 riders from across the UK and Western Europe. Jonny Clay, British Cycling’s Events Manager, said: “This Cyclosportive will be one of the highlights of the cycling summer.

The challenge of riding the same 117 mile route as the stars of the Tour de France has the potential to inspire cyclists across the country. Add to that the carnival atmosphere and the sheer size of the event and it looks like being a great day for cycling.”The event will be owned by British Cycling and be incorporated into its “Everyday Cycling” programme. Pennine Events will organise the event on behalf of British Cycling.

Full details of the route and its partners will be announced on Thursday 15th February.For more information contact Melanie Berry or Chris Simon on 0115 9161615 or melanie.berry@perfectmotion.org