A Tour de force for city of Sunderland

It’s hard to remember a time when cycling has been more popular in this country. So news that Sunderand city centre will be playing host to the second round of the Tour Series professional cycling event next month is to be most welcomed.

Staged in the city on Tuesday, August 10, the races will take place in a circuit outside Mowbray Park. As well as the cycling in the evening, a full day of family activities is promised building up to the event.

Having first began in 2009, the Tour Series sees Britain’s best male and female cyclists compete against each other in front of the TV cameras. Olympians and Tour de France riders have competed in the event, which attracts good crowds wherever it goes.

Council bosses are understandably delighted that Sunderland has been selected as one of the series venues and hope residents – whether cycling fans or not – get along to cheer on the participants.

As we get ready for what some are calling ‘Freedom Day’ on Monday and the further easing of restrictions around coronavirus it is hoped that events like the Tour Series will give people something to look forward to as the summer progresses, although the current high levels of Covid infection in the city serve as a warning that we all still need to act sensibly in these challenging times and all necessary steps will need to be taken to ensure this event is delivered safely.

For a city that loves its sport, it will be good to see Sunderland once again on the sporting map when the Tour Series comes to Wearside. Good luck to all taking part and those cheering them on!