“Circuit of the Fens” cycling race which will be the longest in the country coming to Whittlesey
Some of Britain's top riders will take on the mammoth 125-mile "The Circuit of the Fens" - Credit: Archant
MANY of Britain’s leading professional and amateur cyclists will meet in Whittlesey on June 16 for the first edition of the “Circuit of the Fens” road race.
About 140 cyclists are expected to take on the 125-mile course which will start and finish in the town centre.
The race has been organised by St Ives Cycling Club, who have worked with Whittlesey Town Council, Cambridgeshire Highways and Cambridgeshire Police to bring the event to the town.
St Ives CC member Colin Coe, one of the race co-ordinators, said: “The Mayor of Whittlesey Councillor Kay Mayor has been receptive to the idea and the council has given us 100 per cent support.
“We are confident of attracting all of the top UK based teams and we also plan to invite one or two foreign squads to add an international flavour.”
Mr Coe is convinced the “Circuit of the Fens”, the longest single day race on the British calendar, will provide a stern test for the competitors.
He said: “It is probably the flattest race in the country but it is very long with no downhill bits where you can rest. The wide open roads mean the riders will be completely exposed to the wind.”
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The elite race circuit starts in Whittlesey and heads out to Ramsey and Benwick before returning to the town.
A 75-mile support race is also scheduled on the day and plans are in place to hold a BMX demonstration and family ride at the event.
Mr Coe hopes the race will become a marquee event on the domestic, and in time international, cycling calendar.
He said: “There are six premier events on the domestic calendar and we are hoping next year to be added to that list.
“Looking further ahead, we would like to get on to the international circuit.”
