Perfect 10 for cyclists as Leeds celebrates Grand Depart anniversary

Hundreds of cyclists will take to the streets of Leeds this weekend as the city celebrates the 10th anniversary of the cycle race.^e commemoration of the visit of the Tour de France Grand Départ to Yorkshire.

Plans were first announced in March to celebrate the anniversary with a mass cycling event called the Legacy Ride.

With final preparations underway for this Sunday’s (July 7) event, organisers have confirmed that over 500 people have signed up.

These seasoned amateur cyclists will follow much of the route of the 2014 Grand Depart as they head into the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, starting from Roundhay Park in Leeds.

Legacy Ride is organised by leading cycling events company Struggle Events, with support from Leeds City Council and sponsorship from Leeds-based advanced digital delivery consultancy Axiologik.

Funds are being raised for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and £6.8 million for Leeds Hospitals Charity to establish a Rob Burrow Centre for MND.

This Saturday, City Square will be the scene of a special programme of cycling-related activities, competitions and other fun things for the whole family.

The entertainment in City Square runs from 11am to 2pm and is organised by the council with support from British Cycling and the Dr Bike repair service.

Both events this weekend will bring back memories of 2014 and the remarkable scenes that accompanied the Grand Départ in Yorkshire.

An estimated 230,000 spectators gathered in Leeds city centre for the start of the race, with crowds also lining the streets as the runners passed through other parts of the region.

A report by the council and UK Sport found that the Grand Depart has boosted Yorkshire’s economy by over £100 million, with further long-term benefits expected from increased tourism, brand awareness and trade deals.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, deputy leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“It’s hard to believe that it’s already 10 years since the Grand Départ of the Tour de France came to Leeds and Yorkshire.

“That unforgettable weekend was a magical moment in time for both the city and the province, so I am delighted that we have the opportunity to celebrate the anniversary in style.

“The event on Saturday in City Square and the Legacy Ride on Sunday will together underline the huge popularity of cycling locally. It promises to be a great few days.”

Matt Mannakee, Director and Co-Founder of Struggle Events, said:

“Summer is here and we are seeing more and more cyclists taking their bikes out of the garage to enjoy our fantastic landscape while travelling on two wheels.

“We’ve also seen a final surge of registrations for our Legacy Ride. There aren’t many spots left, so if you’re keen to get involved, sign up today.”

Ben Davison, Founder and Director of Axiologik, said:

“Legacy Ride is now just a few days away and there is a lot of excitement in the community about the event.

“The Tour de France is a fond memory for people in our region and, following the sad passing of Rob Burrow, it is especially poignant that the event raises money for MND-related causes.

“There is still time to join the hundreds of others who support this wonderful event and such brilliant causes.”

To ensure Legacy Ride is suitable for a wide range of levels, there are three route options: 230km, 120km and 70km.

All routes start and finish in Roundhay Park and take in places such as Buttertubs Pass, Bolton Abbey and Askwith Moor, near Otley.

The event will be held on open roads, with participants setting off early in the morning in staggered groups. There will be no road closures and residents are encouraged to turn up and show their support for the runners as they pass by.

More information about Legacy Ride, including entry fees, can be found here. Cyclists can participate as a team or individual on any type of bike, including e-bikes.

ENDS