Amateur cyclists across the Midlands will have the chance to ride some of the route that the world's top cyclists will tackle this summer, in the Tour Ride Northamptonshire; the Official Sportive of the Aviva Women's Tour.
Taking place for the first time on Sunday 17 July, this unique sportive will take place less than a month after the final stage of the 2016 Aviva Women's Tour races through Northamptonshire.
Starting and finishing from the historic Delapre Abbey in Northampton, riders will have the choice of an 80-mile Pro route to test the most committed cyclists which will use much of the Stage Five route of the Aviva Women's Tour from Northampton to Kettering including two Queen of the Mountains climbs, and has been put together by the same team behind the professional race.
A 40 mile Challenge route will test both new and experienced cyclists, while for others looking for a more relaxed cycle there is the 10 mile Fun Ride. The Fun Ride is on an excellent 10-mile route which is designed for anyone and everyone; young and old, families, groups of friends or workmates, those new to cycling, those keen for a gentle, safe, fun ride away from the roads on off-road cycle tracks and bridleways.
In addition riders in all three rides will enjoy support from the Aviva Women's Tour official SKODA fleet, mechanical support from Vittoria, the Neutral Service partners to the race, and nutritional support from a brand-new nutrition partner for 2016. Tour Ride Northamptonshire is also pleased to join with the Hope Centre as its official charity partner. Participants in any of the three rides are invited to 'Ride 4 Hope' and raise some money for a well-known and highly valued local charity.
With the 80-mile route perfect for experienced sportive riders, the 40-mile a great challenge for those new to cycling and the 10 mile Fun Ride route a perfect introduction to cycling for children and families the Tour Ride Northamptonshire, the official sportive of the Aviva Women's Tour provides something for everyone. Enter by the 4th of April for the Early Bird price of £28.00 for the 40 or 80 mile routes!
With some fun and exciting activities along the flat route of the 10 Mile Fun Ride, it's not just about cycling even! This route has been specifically designed to be suitable for able riders 7+yrs (ages 5+ on a trailer or a tag along). Riders under 18 will need a signed parental consent form and under 16's will need to be accompanied by an adult. 10% of all £5.00 entry fees will go to the Hope Centre Charity (www.northamptonhopecentre.org.uk).
Northamptonshire County Council cabinet member for families and learning Cllr Matthew Golby said: "The family cycle ride is a really exciting part of this year's Aviva Women's Tour for Northamptonshire. Last year's event inspired 65% of spectators to cycle more often, so this sportive offers people the chance to do just that.”
"The reason we are so passionate about the Aviva Women's Tour here in Northamptonshire is not only because it gives people the chance to watch the world's best female cyclists race, but also to inspire them to become more physically active themselves.”
"I would encourage people to take advantage of the chance to sign up early to take part in what is sure to be a fantastic family event this summer.”
With 3 expertly designed routes to there is truly something for everyone, for more information visit our website - www.tourride.co.uk or like our Facebook - www.facebook.com/thetourride or Twitter www.twitter.com/thetourride pages.