THOUSANDS will seize the chance for a mass bike ride along the route of the first ever Tour de Yorkshire just hours before the professional cyclists take part in the inaugural race.
The "sportive" event dubbed the Tour de Yorkshire Ride will be a central part of the new approved international cycle race which will be held for the first time from May 1 - 3.
Three distance options are available for the sportive, with riders able to choose from 50km, 100km or 140km routes. A women-only Cycletta sportive will also take place along the 50km route. Each of the carefully designed routes will feature much of the Tour de Yorkshire route with a number of challenging climbs and spectacular Yorkshire views.
The event is being supported by five-time Tour de France winner, Bernard Hinault, who will be giving sportive riders tips. Participants in the sportive will cross the same finish line as the pro riders and a winners’ ceremonies will take place on the Tour de Yorkshire podium.
The sportive will be held on the final day of the Tour de Yorkshire, Sunday, May 3, just hours before the pro race starts.
Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire said: “This is such an exciting opportunity for Yorkshire. The Tour de Yorkshire is all about growing the visitor economy and this event, with thousands taking part from all over the UK and overseas, will bring even more people to visit our county.”
Demand for places in the inaugural Tour de Yorkshire Ride is expected to be extremely high and people are encouraged to pre-register at letouryorkshire.com/sportive Entries will officially open on February 4.
The 50km and Cycletta (women only) Tour de Yorkshire ride route
The 108km Tour de Yorkshire ride route
The 140km Tour de Yorkshire ride route
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here