Cycle the same city route as the world’s best riders
AMATEUR cyclists are being given the chance to follow the Tour of Britain Grand Depart route from Glasgow.
It is now 40 days to go until the event and the Tour of Britain with Glasgow Life have announced the route racers will go through the city on September 4.
Some of the best teams and riders in the world will start the race from George Square at 11.30am.
Following the departure of the Tour of Britain riders, members of the public will have the opportunity to ride on sections of the route between 1.30 and 5pm.
Cllr Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life, said: “In just over a month, the very best riders and teams from across the world will be making their way to Glasgow to take part in the Tour of Britain Grand Depart.
“Glasgow is one of the top five sporting cities in the world and it will be really special to see our city centre transformed by cyclists and spectators alike.
“We are very proud to host this stage of the race and I can’t wait to see the action kick off from George Square – and to continue throughout the day with Sky Ride Glasgow.”
The route of the Glasgow circuit will include Montrose Street, Glasgow Green and Glassford Street before passing back through George Square and taking in Argyle Street and Buchanan Street with racing then commencing on George Street.
Riders will then tackle the opening Yodel Sprint on Clyde Street after around five kilometres of racing, shortly before turning left at Bridge Street and crossing the River Clyde to head south out of the city.
The riders will cross the finishing line in Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway, following a 161km journey which will also take in parts of East Ayrshire.
Tour of Britain Race Director Mick Bennett said: “The Glasgow Grand Depart is a fantastic opportunity for cycling fans to get up close to the world’s top riders as they prepare to start this year’s Tour of Britain.
“Starting the Tour of Britain in Glasgow with a circuit presents a great chance to not only see the race twice but also for people to then get on their bike and experience riding on this wonderful traffic free circuit.”
Sky Ride is returning to Glasgow for the last time and will let cyclists follow in the tracks of the Tour of Britain teams, cycling on a trafficfree circuit through the city centre.
There will also be free activities such as cycling game shows and photo booths, and all participants are entitled to a free expert bike check worth £14.99 at Halfords.
David Bourque, British Cycling’s Director of Recreation and Partnerships, said: “We are delighted to once again bring a big traffic-free cycling event to Glasgow in 2016.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are, how old your bike is, or how fast you ride – at Sky Ride Glasgow it’s all about getting on your bike and having fun.”
Paul Bush, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, added: “With the prospect of seeing some of the world’s finest cyclists in action, I’m sure spectators will turn out in force at George Square to join in with festivities on the day, as well as showing their support all along the route to Castle Douglas.”
For more information and to sign up for Sky Ride Glasgow, see www. goskyride.com/GlasgowSkyRide.