Big Bike Bash Harrogate 2015

Harrogate’s new Big Bike Bash to ride into town on 20-21 June

Harrogate Borough Council has today announced details of a new cycling festival which will be held in the district this summer.

 The ‘Big Bike Bash’, which is a joint venture between the council and Pennine Events, will take place in Harrogate on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June and will see cycling fever returning to the town a year after the district hosted the Tour de France Grand Départ.

 The weekend’s programme will include a number of competitive and leisurely cycling events for both professional and amateur cyclists.  A lively entertainment village will also be located on Harrogate’s famous Stray, next to the finish line of the first stage of the 2014 Tour de France.

 On Saturday, a closed road circuit will be created around the town centre finishing with the same uphill sprint along Parliament Street, which marked victory for Marcel Kittel and disaster for Mark Cavendish.

 The course will be opened to the public in the afternoon allowing cyclists to ride the route with its tight turns and climbs, before elite male and female teams from around the country compete in criterion races – multi-lap races, which offer the same excitement, thrills and possibly spills as last year’s Tour de France.

 On Sunday morning, there will be three organised rides offering cyclists of all ability levels the opportunity to get out on their bike. 

 Throughout the weekend, visitors will be able to enjoy the festival atmosphere within the event village, which will offer live music, entertainment and cycling themed fun.

 Harrogate Borough Council Leader, Councillor Richard Cooper said: “Last year’s Tour de France Grand Départ proved to be an immense success for the district and illustrated just how good a show we could put on for both residents and visitors.

 “It is fitting that a year after the Tour de France visited our district, we should mark the occasion with the Big Bike Bash, a weekend of cycling celebration.

 “Whether you cycle or not, the Big Bike Bash will offer something for everyone - from thrilling cycling action to fantastic music. Cyclists will have the opportunity to ride the route, before watching some of the best cyclists in the UK battle it out to win this inaugural race. And once the race is over, the fun will continue in the event village.

 “We are keen to involve the local community in this event and would encourage any local businesses that would like to be involved to get in touch. We would also like to hear from local riding clubs who would be interested in working with us to help us create a cycling festival to remember.”

 Michael Newby, Director of Visit Harrogate commented: “Last year, so many visitors told us that Harrogate’s festive atmosphere contributed to their enjoyment of the Tour de France weekend.  We expect the Big Bike Bash to tempt some of those back again to experience another lively celebration of cycling.  This is a great opportunity to maintain Harrogate’s sporting profile.”

 Any companies interested in sponsorship opportunities linked to the event should contact Mandy@pennineevents.co.uk

 

Further details on the Big Bike Bash can be found at: www.visitharrogate.co.uk/bigbikebash

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