The inaugural staging of what is hoped will become an annual 3 day cycling event in Newcastle and Northumberland. Friday evening saw criterium races for various ages and experience levels held in Leazes Park. On Sunday top club riders and professionals raced for the Beaumont Trophy, an event which the organisers wisely decided to base in Stamfordham Velo country. Our riding involvement was limited to taking part in the sportive rides on the Saturday.

 

The sportive event offered rides of 31, 62 or 100 miles. 9 Velos took part but sadly we had no representative in the 100 mile ride this year. Start and finish was at the Falcons Rugby ground in Kingston Park meaning that most of our group could forego the car and cycle the 10 miles from Velo HQ. The rides headed North into Northumberland. The 31 mile ride turned back at Whalton, the 62 miler at Forestburngate. All riders passed through Stamfordham on the return leg and only the 31 miler avoided the rigours of Ryal Banks.

 

Timing chips, signage, feed stations, emergency back up and a quality T-shirt were provided by the organisers. Delicious home made teas were provided by Stamfordham Velo and their friends and served in Stamfordham Village Hall on the Saturday and Sunday.

 

This was an excellent event and, in terms of ride quality and organisation probably the best sportive ride that any of us has ever done. The entry fee of £15 did raise an eyebrow or two but still a must for next year.

 

Member of Stamfordham Velo reacting to the news that
the Northern Cyclone Dates for 2008  have been  announced

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