Warm welcome for Etape racers
Perfect weather for the event’s 4000 riders
Competitors at Keltneyburn This pack of racers keep the pace up Over 4000 cyclists raced in dream conditions during Sunday’s Etape Caledonia event.
This year the closed-road race was offered either as an extended 85-mile route or the new 40-mile distance.
First over the line was Jeremy Honor from Milton Keynes, who covered the hill roads in three hours, 40 minutes and 14 seconds.
Making a guest appearance in Pitlochry at the Etape’s start was Mark Beaumont, the Perthshire endurance cyclist who last summer travelled round the world by bike in the fastest ever time, who was there as the event ambassador.
Mark said: “I’ve cycled all round the world but there’s no better feeling than coming back to the place where I rode my first ever bicycle to see so many others cycle the same roads.
“From the beautiful scenery to the camaraderie, it’s great to have been involved in Etape Caledonia.”
Mark shared his global experiences at a Q&A session on Saturday at the event village in Pitlochry.
The cyclists began from Pitlochry, with around 3500 riders taking on the 85-mile route while another 400 tackled the 40-mile distance.
Cheered on by enthusiastic supporters, the cyclists rode around Loch Tummel and Loch Rannoch before approaching the base of Schiehallion and returning to Pitlochry.
Athlete’s Angels provided massage treatments to riders and Aberfeldy Birks Cinema screened bike-themed films for pedal enthusiasts.
Local photographer Richard Bowden was at the roadside to capture the action.
He said: “From what I saw, it all seemed to go off well in cycle-friendly weather and the Pitlochry feels a long way off. Pictures by Richard Blake riders got a cheery welcome and encouragement from those watching along the route, with the riders happy to respond with a smile and thanks.”
Marc Webster, senior vice-president of IMG Mass Participation EMEA, the organisers of Etape Caledonia, said: “It’s been great to see old and new faces make their way to the beautiful town of Pitlochry.
“This year was extra-special as we not only extended the route to 85 miles, but also introduced a shorter 40-mile route, making the event accessible to both a younger age group and those looking for a different challenge.” On the flat