Manchester will stage its own closed-roads sportive on June 4, with 13, 26 and 52-mile routes on a city centre circuit.
The Great Manchester Cycle will take place on Bank Holiday Monday and is organised by Nova, the team behind the Bupa Great Manchester Run, the British Gas Great North Swim and the world’s biggest half marathon, the Bupa Great North Run.
Featuring a 13-mile lap starting at Eastlands and going past Old Trafford, the circuit also includes a stretch on the Mancunian Way; the inner city ring road normally closed to cyclists.
“I am thrilled at the prospect of the Great Manchester Cycle in my favourite sporting city,” said 2008 Olympic individual pursuit champion Rebecca Romero. “It will be a real boost for the sport and I’m sure will capture the imagination of the public.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury added: “The Great Manchester Cycle is a unique chance for everyone, regardless of ability, to get on their bikes and enjoy riding through the city on roads free of traffic.
“The 2012 Olympics will see a national focus on sport that will help inspire everyone to get more active. Manchester is hosting a selection of mass participation events throughout the year providing as many people as possible with the chance to take part.
“The Great Manchester cycle has categories designed for cyclists of all abilities so there’s no reason not to hop on your bike and enjoy the city from a different perspective.”
Entry costs £28 – head to www.greatcycle.org for more.
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