Warwickshire News Mine

Warwick Cycle Races is increasing in popularity among both cyclists and visitors year on year, and this year is expected to be no different.

The three riders selected for the Olympics that have previously ridden at Warwick are Steve Cummings, who is competing in the road race and individual time trial; Paul Manning, team pursuit; and Chris Newton in the points race.

There is also plenty of anticipation around the future prospects of a young rider competing at this year’s Warwick Cycle Races on Sunday, September 14.

George Atkins, aged just 17, is competing in the Elite Race for the Pearl Izumi – Planet X – High5 Team.

George is on the Olympic Development Plan and in 2007 he won the European Olympic Criterium Race held in Serbia.

Meanwhile preparations are continuing for the event, with a packed schedule of racing to accompany the array of activities going on in Warwick for visitors and spectators.

Racing gets underway at about midday and continues through until about 6pm.

The event is being organised by Warwickshire County Council in partnership with British Cycling, Warwick District Council and TravelWise.

And this year Warwick Cycle Races is also being supported by Warwickshire not-for-profit organisation Action 21.

Richard Hicks, General Manager of Action 21, said: “Our involvement in the cycle races gives us a great opportunity to do much more to promote cycling, including cycle commuting and everyday cycling, not just cycle sport. We are sure that the races will help to demonstrate just how much fun cycling can be.”

Action 21 runs the Recycle Warehouse at Princes Drive recycling centre, and as part of their work here they promote the environment and cycling through the sale of second-hand bikes. All the bikes are checked and repaired for resale.

As part of their support for the cycle races Action 21 will be providing a free ‘Dr Bike’ service for members of the public during the race afternoon.

The races are also once again this year being supported by the National TravelWise Association, of which Warwickshire County Council is a member. This is a network, including local authorities, health, academic bodies and passenger transport executives working together to promote healthy and sustainable transport.

Cllr Martin Heatley, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: “Last year’s event was a huge success, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this year progresses things further.

“Cycling is a great leisure pursuit, way to commute, and way to keep healthy. This event is a wonderful showcase of some of the best cycling talent out there.”

To stay up to date with the latest developments, and for a photo gallery of last year’s event visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/travelwise or for more information on Action 21 see http://www.action21.co.uk

Link to WCC