An annual cycling sportive is set to return next month, with pedallers taking on routes through the stunning Lancashire countryside for great causes.
The Ribble Valley Ride returns on Sunday, June 11, with three different distances for cyclists of all abilities, in aid of three charities.
The 25 mile route rolls through the scenic Ribble Valley, while the longer, 60 mile run heads up through the Trough of Bowland where things get tough and hilly.
The classic, 100 mile run for the fittest riders takes in all that and more, crossing the border into Yorkshire to the town of Hawes and down to Ribblehead Viaduct before turning back to the Red Rose County for the finish.
Last year, the ride raised £5,800 for the Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Prostate Cancer UK, and Rotary Great Britain and Ireland, and it’s hoped this year’s run will improve on that total.
Organised by Accrington and Clitheroe Rotary Clubs, it was founded by passionate cyclist Bill Honeywell, who will be taking part in the run again this year.
Bill, who has twice beat cancer and raised tens of thousands of pounds over the years through various epic cycling challenges, will however be opting for an e-bike this year due to his health setbacks, to make those climbs up the valley a little less challenging.
Bill started the ride in 2015, and is encouraging anyone who wants to get involved to sign up.
He said: “Everyone is welcome to participate in the Ribble Valley Ride.
“It isn’t just for fitness enthusiasts and road racers – it’s a community ride raising important funds for local charities.
“This year, I’ve had a couple of training setbacks, so like an increasing number of ‘veteran’ cyclists, I’m going to be doing the Ride on an e-bike.
“We want to turn the Ribble Valley Ride into a mass participation event and raise as much as possible for good causes and that means making the Ride as accessible and inclusive as possible – including those who would like to take part using an e-bike.
“We’re aiming to give all participants an excellent-value day out and we are keen to encourage a sense of camaraderie, where all riders feel they are supported and appreciated.
“So, if you’ve got a bike at the back of the garage and there’s air in the tyres, please sign up and come along to join us.
“The 25-mile ride is achievable by anyone with average fitness and all the organisers, marshals and other volunteers are very friendly.”
All routes are signed and marshalled with regular stops for food and water along the way, as well as technical back up in case riders get a puncture or need rolling repairs.
Entry costs £20 for the 25 mile ride, £30 for the 60 mile route, and for those brave – or mad – enough to tackle the 100 mile route it is £35. There are also family tickets to encourage as many people to get involved.
Chip timing and full classified results will be available to all riders, although the ride is non-competitive and if cyclists wish to shorten their ride, then they have ample opportunity to do so.
The ride starts at Hanson’s Cement – one of the ride sponsors along with Rufus Carr – on Sunday, June 11, and to enter and for more information, visit ribblevalleyride.org
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