This summer is all about cycling. The Tour de Yorkshire may have left the county, but there’s still plenty of chance to get on your bike around Calderdale – just in time for the anniversary of the Tour de France in Yorkshire.
British Cycling, in partnership with Calderdale Council, is running a number of organised, free rides, especially developed for those getting back on their bikes, as well as dedicated cyclists looking for a new challenge. There are easygoing rides, track rides, steady rides and for those who dare, more advanced, challenging routes.
If it’s been a while since you were in the saddle why not join the beginner level Centre Vale Park ride starting at 2pm at Todmorden High School on Sunday 7 June or the People’s Park Pootle meeting in the park at 2pm on Sunday 9 August. These completely traffic free rides are perfect for families and for new and lapsed cyclists to gain confidence and have fun on the bike. The rides will take around 30 minutes, but there’s so much to do and see in our parks why not bring a picnic and make a day of it?
If you’re looking for a more challenging ride, then book on the Brighouse 360 on Sunday 30 August at 10am or the Ovenden Challenge on Sunday 16 August from 10am. These rides are around 3 hours long, and give you the chance to stretch your legs on the bike and really soak in the amazing views on offer around the Calder Valley. The challenging status of these rides may give you a hint as to the nature of the routes but then again, what ride in Yorkshire doesn’t take in a few hills!
There are lots of other free organised rides across the summer; see the Goskyride.com website for more information and to book your place. Each of the rides are led by a trained ride leader who will be on hand throughout the ride. There will also be plenty of stops along the way to have a breather, grab some refreshments and most of all, to take in the views.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Marcus Thompson, said:
“It’s clear from the number of people I’ve seen cycling around Calderdale, that this a great time to get out on your bike.
“Whether you’re looking to start cycling, find a new route, or challenge yourself, it’s a great idea to join in a Skyride, where there’s something for everyone, right across Calderdale.”
For more information about any of these races, or to book a place visit www.goskyride.com(external link) and search for races in Calderdale. For more information on all things cycling in Calderdale visit www.cyclecalderdale.co.uk(external link)