Olympic medallist tries out Pendle’s National Road Race Circuit
Published Thursday 20th May 10
Pendle's own Olympic medallist, cyclist Steven Burke, visited Pendle last week to test out the National Road Race route. He rode alongside Pendle Council’s Director of Regeneration Brian Cookson.
Pendle's own Olympic medallist, cyclist Steven Burke, visited Pendle last week to test out the National Road Race route.
He rode alongside Pendle Council's Director of Regeneration Brian Cookson, just two months ahead of the major UK cycling event on Sunday 27 June.
Steven said: "It's great to have the National Championships right here on my doorstep in Pendle.
"It's a really challenging circuit with a long hard climb towards Pendle Hill and some tricky descents.
"Fifteen laps will sort out the really strong riders, with the climbing specialists likely to come to the fore."
Steven added: "It's going to be fantastic for the spectators.
"You'll be able to get right up close to the riders like they do in the Tour de France.
"The Tour is just a week later and we'll get a lot of the same top class riders in Pendle."
Brian, who, although a passionate cyclist and President of British Cycling, confessed:
"It's not every day I get to ride alongside an Olympic champion - it was hard going, I can tell you.
"But I know Steven wasn't pulling out all the stops like he will be on 27 June!
Brian explained: "This will be the biggest cycling road race in the North West since the Commonwealth Games.
"In fact it's the biggest sporting event Pendle has ever seen, and we've pulled out all the stops to make sure it is a success."
Brian has been working with the team at Pendle Council, Pennine Events and sponsors cottages4you which is putting on the race.
He said: "The roads will be completely closed to other traffic, so everything can take place safely.
"There'll be special arrangements for residents, diversions for other traffic and plenty of parking for spectators.
"With a cycle show, a big screen showing live coverage of the event, lots of places to eat and drink, and some of the world's top cyclists passing by every few minutes throughout the day, everyone is assured of a great day out in the beautiful Pendle countryside!"
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