NE England counts down to 3-day cycling festival

The weekend starts with the Newcastle Leazes Criteriums on Friday 15th June. There are races for all abilities and both the Elite and senior support race are now almost fully subscribed.

There are still places available on the night in the youth races and in the “come and have a go” event for noice racers.

On Saturday there is a rest day for the elite riders as club and recreational cyclists take part in the Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge which comprises three different rides which go out into the Northumberland countryside. The three distances are 31, 62 and 100 miles. This year the number of people taking part is limited to 940. It is one of the biggest events of its type in the country and over 30 per cent of participants are travelling to the North East of England for the event.

The National Motorcycle Escort Group will sweep the route throughout the day to ensure the safety of the riders. All competitors will wear timing chips which will be swiped at various points along the route. This allows competitors to set themselves a target for future years as well as allowing the organisers to keep a check on the whereabouts of all competitors.

Organiser Peter Harrison wants to make this event one of an international series known as the Golden Wheel events.

On the Saturday there is also a day long ‘Go Ride’ competition for children. Prizes will be awarded for the winners of the different age categories and youngsters can just turn up and have a go.

The finale of the weekend is the Beaumont Trophy Premier Calendar Road Race. This event will see 110 top riders competing to become the 57th winner of the Beaumont Trophy.

The 105-mile event is set around the village of Stamfordham, with the finish at around 3pm.

www.northernrockcyclone.co.uk