CYCLING: SOME of the world’s top female cyclists will be speeding around the roads of Warwickshire later this year after it was announced the county will host a part of the Women’s Tour.
Following the success of last year’s event, which saw 75,000 spectators line the Warwickshire roads to catch a glimpse of the athletes, the race will return once again.
Stage three will start in Atherstone before speeding through the county and eventually concluding in Leamington on Friday, June 9.
Won by Britain’s Lizzie Deignan last year, this year’s event will feature five stages – starting in Daventry on June 7 before trips through Staffordshire, the Warwickshire stage, Chesterfield and ending in London on Sunday, June 11.
The world’s top 15 teams will take part in the race, which is part of the UCI Women’s WorldTour.
Coun Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council spokesperson for economic development, said: “Last year offered a chance to showcase our county at its best.
“The huge number of visitors meant many businesses were able to benefit from the boost it gave to the region.
“We are looking forward to the race returning to Warwickshire.”
This year marks the fourth edition of the world leading race, and leading charity Breast Cancer Care has been announced as the Official Charity Partner for the tour.
The charity has 1,000 places for women to cycle their Pink Ribbon Tour – completing 25km on the circuit while raising funds for women facing breast cancer.
Katie Archibald, who won Gold in the Team Pursuit at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, said: “I’m excited but also nervous about the opportunity to ride The Women’s Tour since it’s one of the most competitive stage races on the women’s UCI calendar.
“I hope to make an impact on the road scene after a change of focus from an enjoyable track season in 2016.”
A one-hour highlights programme of every stage will be broadcast on ITV4 during the event.
