The 2014 Isle of Wight Cycling Festival kicks off this coming weekend, with a huge variety of rides available for all ages.
The famous event, which takes place from Saturday 13th to 28th September and is the UK’s largest dedicated cycling festival, has rides from the simple to challenging and quirky to the unique including fossil rides, story rides, toddlers tea parties and muddy puddle rides.
There are also some great new additions to the programme including tweed rides, frocks on bikes and a chance to try a Haibike taster sessions, which is a type of electric bicycle.
It begins with the carbon cycle celebration which comprises of free family entertainment including cycle training, mountain bike stunt shows, live music and more, the event takes place on Saturday from 11:00 to 15:00 at St James’ Square, Newport.
In addition, the outdoor cycle cinema returns this year. It works by people pedalling to power the film, meaning if the cycling stops so does the film, which is Despicable Me 2. This unusual cinema experience will take place on Saturday also at Seaclose Park in Newport from 19:00.
The tough Hills Killer takes place on Sunday where entrants can choose from 13, 26 or 52 mile courses. You can take on the challenge of an orienteering event against the clock as you pit your bike against the three, seven or fourteen hills. The route this year will begin at either Broadlea Primary School in Lake (14 Hills), West Wight Sports Centre in Freshwater (Seven Hills) or Chale Green (Three Hills). All routes will finish at Broadlea Primary School.
Entrants can register online, or download an entry form, by visiting www.isleofwightcyclingfestival.co.uk. Free entry is available for those taking part in the three hills killer aged 18 and under.
The Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre is playing host to the Wight Mountain Chevy Chase Challenge on Saturday 27th September. The ‘Chevy Chase’ is a four-hour event taking place on the purpose built Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre at Cheverton Farm near Shorwell.
The Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre was created for 2011’s Island Games and this exciting off-road enduro event will test riders’ skills and endurance. The event is organised by Island charity, Challenge & Adventure which works with disadvantaged young people, using adventurous outdoor activities and tailored support to build their confidence, raise their self-esteem and to help them to re–engage at school and in the community.
For more information visit www.challengeadventure.org.uk. All participants will receive a timing chip and a medal.
Councillor Shirley Smart is Executive member for economy and tourism and said:
“The Isle of Wight Cycling Festival is a superb event that attracts all kinds of cyclists, ranging from the young and old and the casual cyclist to the very keen. Not only is it popular with residents, the Island also sees many people visit to take part.
“The festival also supports Visit Isle of Wight’s ‘Bicycle Island’ campaign which aims to promote the use of bicycles on the Island.
“There are many events to choose from this year for all ages and abilities and I am sure everyone who takes part will have a great time.”
For full details of all rides at this year’s Isle of Wight Cycling Festival, go to at www.isleofwightcyclingfestival.co.uk.
