A FREE cycling event which will see city residents take in the sights and sounds of Coventry is coming to the city this weekend (August 7) amid a national boom in the sport following national on-track success.
Sky Ride is expected to attracted thousands of expert, intermediate and novice two-wheeled enthusiasts following on from the popularity of last year’s event which saw participants ride around the ring road and even through the Herbert Art Gallery.
The seven kilometre traffic free route will circle around the city with riders only having to register to take part in the festivities.
Sky Ride 2016 was last week launched by avid cyclist Denise van Outren and her six-year-old daughter Betsy.
The pair hit their local park prior to the 2016 events – which will take place in 12 cities across the UK, and this year will see the one millionth Sky Rider take part as 100,000 Brits are expected to cycle through the nation’s streets.
Coventry’s Sky Ride event will be host to The Hub where cyclists can pick up bespoke bibs to wear during the rides and further information on the route will be available.
There will also be interactive games and activities for all attendees, along with a photo booth area and big screens showcasing loads of cycling content for all attendees to enjoy.
Local street food providers will also be keeping stomachs full by serving up delicious menus with a range of dishes available.
Six-time Olympic gold medallist, Sir Chris Hoy, has been involved in Sky Ride since the commencement of the programme in 2009, and will be getting on his bike once again this summer.
He said: “I’m delighted to be involved again in this year’s Sky Ride campaign.
“Over the past eight years, tens of thousands of local cyclists have taken to the streets as a result of the successful British Cycling and Sky partnership – we’re really looking forward to making the 2016 Sky Ride event the biggest and best yet.”
Denise van Outen, Sky Ride Ambassador, said: “I’ve always found cycling a great way to get out and be active with family and friends.
“I love getting out on my bike with Betsy and we’re thrilled to announce the launch of Sky Ride, in its biggest year yet.
“Sky Ride events are the perfect opportunity to get your family together and have a great day out with so much to do, both on and off the bike.”
Visit www.goskyride.com to register for the event and find further details.
