THE route of a prestigious new Scottish cycle race has been announced.
The Tour of Ayrshire, which has been given world status, will see hundreds of cyclists compete in two races on closed roads around Kilmarnock.
The 20k Chrono time trial race takes place on Saturday 29 April and follows a circular route out of Kilmarnock, round Fenwick and Waterside, through Moscow and back.
As a qualifying event for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, anyone finishing in the top 25 per cent of their age group will be able to compete at the “worlds” in Albi, France, in August 2017.
The following day, the Marmotte Ecosse Grand Fondo will see up to 5,000 riders take on a challenging 70 mile route that takes in the best of East Ayrshire’s scenery around Galston, Newmilns, Mauchline, Catrine, Auchinleck, Cumnock and Machouse Hill. The race also starts and finishes in Kilmarnock, with the top 25 per cent of competitors also invited to compete in the worlds.
Race organisers Galazo are keen to stress that the event, which they compare to a big-city marathon, caters for a wide range of participants, from elite racers and experienced competitive riders to leisure cyclists looking for a new and picturesque challenge.
“We’ve designed the route to give cyclists of all levels a great day out on the bike, a good challenge and a chance to take in the beauty of the countryside," said Charlie Milarvie, who created the route and has been cycling on Ayrshire's roads for more than 35 years.
“The Loudon Valley towards Cumnock features some fantastic undulating hills and dales, so for much of the race you will either be working up a hill or concentrating on going downhill.
“There’s also some great spots for spectators, so we’re really hoping the local community in Ayrshire will get behind the event.”
For more information and to enter, go to www.tourofayrshire.com
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