Dundee Cyclathon to launch with new event

THE Dundee Cyclathon is back with a new event.

The activity will run from September 4 to 18 and will stage, for the first time, a mass ride launch event funded by Cycling Scotland.

When the 18th Cyclathon kicks off, cyclists of all ages are invited to join in on the fun for free, riding approximately 11 miles – from Barnhill Rock Gardens to Dundee Cycle Hub and back.

Entrants can enjoy the entertainment available at the Cycle Hub, such as the Muckmedden Pump Track and the Hub’s Crazy Bikes.

The aim is for cyclists to have fun and enjoy the entertainment at Dundee’s largest family cycling occasion.

The Cyclathon, organised by the Rotary Club of Claverhouse and funded by Cycling Scotland, is in aid of the STV Children’s Appeal – aiming to help the one in four children in Scotland who are living in poverty.

Entrants can also raise money for their own chosen charities. The aim is to beat the sum of £18,000 which was raised last time.

Organiser Ian Balgowan said: “We have missed the interaction with the public over the last two years, when the pandemic has meant that we had to run a virtual event.

“This year, we are delighted to restore a physical event.

“The launch day is a great opportunity for people to see the new cycle path and also to visit the new Cycle Hub.”

Campaign manager at the STV Children’s Appeal, Natalie Wright, said: “The Rotary Club of Claverhouse has worked exceptionally hard to ensure this year’s event is a great success.

“At the STV Children’s Appeal, we want to see as many folk as possible get on their bike and cycle around our wonderful city to raise money for the children that need it most. I am delighted to support the Dundee Cyclathon.”

Susan Nicolson and colleague Brandon Cook of STV are already in training and have joined Rotarians at the Dundee Cycle Hub to test out the new launch day route.

A TEENAGER who broke a former Dundee United youth footballer’s jaw in an apparently unprovoked attack in a park has been warned he could be given a custodial sentence.

The youth, who was 15 at the time of the incident, swung a single punch at East Fife player Lucas Williamson as he tried to walk away from an argument in King’s Park, Stirling.

The impact of the blow knocked the left-back unconscious for around two minutes.

Stirling Sheriff Court heard Mr Williamson had been on his way to a house party at about 10.30pm on July 17 last year and had gone to the park to meet up with friends, who were also going.

Shortly after their arrival in the park, the teenager – who cannot be named for legal reasons – approached Mr Williamson and his friends.

They walked away from him because they believed he was about to start an argument.

Prosecutor Katie Cunningham