How would you like a Rugby World Cup winner in your team?
BUSINESSES are being urged to join one of the most exciting sporting events to launch in the city.
More than 30,000 people have already pre-registered to find out more about Vélo Birmingham in response to a teaser campaign about the race.
Full details are being revealed at its official launch today (Thursday, September 22) at the Cycle Show at the NEC.
As a Vélo Birmingham partner, the Birmingham Post can reveal that the 100-mile closed road cycle race – described as a marathon on wheels – will take place on Sunday, September 24, 2017.
The 15,000 capacity event will take riders of all levels of ability on a remarkable route starting in Birmingham city centre and travelling through Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Sandwell and Dudley. It is being backed by double Olympic gold medal winner Lord Sebastian Coe and Rugby World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson and organised by CSM Active and Birmingham City Council.
For corporate teams there is a designated entry option – Birmingham Business 100 – in which teams will have a chance for Martin Johnson to join their squad.
The aim is to get 100 business teams to race 100 miles to raise £100,000 for charity. It is supported by the Birmingham Post and Great Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
Entry is not yet open and priority will be given to those who have pre-registered by 5pm on Wednesday, September 28, at www.velobirmingham.com/
They will be able to book their place at 8am on Thursday, September 29.
Prospective riders will also have the option to enter through one of Vélo Birmingham’s Lead Charity Partners – Alzheimer’s Society, NSPCC, Cure Leukae- mia and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Vélo Birmingham will run alongside next year’s BikeFest, the free family friendly event which offers a fun and healthy day out and includes a 2km closed road city cycle race.
Last Sunday’s BikeFest attracted record numbers and featured a team from Action Sports Tour performing tricks and stunts in front of the Council House.
Martin Johnson CBE, who was born in Solihull, said: “As a cycling fanatic, it’s hugely exciting to see an event of this scale coming to my home town.
“Cycling on closed roads is absolutely exhilarating and I can’t wait to be one of 15,000 riders on the start line next September 24.
“My advice to anyone who is tempted to enter but is doubting their ability to complete 100 miles would be to just take the plunge and go for it!
“I speak from experience when I say that with the right training it’s an extremely achievable goal.”