Report
Four thousand people joined Sky Sports News presenter Simon Thomas and pro cyclist John Lee Augustyn for Sky Ride Bournemouth on Sunday 24th July. Many more came out to watch and experience the day as cyclists of all ages and abilities took to traffic-free streets for the chance to enjoy the seaside town on two wheels.
The free event, hosted by British Cycling and Sky, in partnership with Bournemouth Borough Council, allowed riders to ride a 7.5km route at their own pace whilst enjoying some of the town’s most well-known landmarks including the Lower Gardens and the Bournemouth Balloon. Participants were treated to a whole host of activities and entertainment throughout the day along the route and in the green open spaces of Meyrick Park.
With performances from local buskers, an outdoor stage featuring local groups and dance schools and even a circus skills workshop, there was something on hand for everyone to enjoy. There was also plenty of entertainment for young people, including a Go-Ride racing course where participants tested their racing skills and received tips and advice from pros and British Cycling coaches.
Sky Ride Ambassador Simon Thomas said: “I had a brilliant time at my first ever Sky Ride today. It's been lovely to meet so many Sky Riders of all ages. Just looking at the smiling faces around me you can tell it’s been a great day with fantastic entertainment along the route and fun activities for all ages to enjoy. Sky Ride is a fantastic initiative, getting people out in the fresh air and enjoying cycling and I’m really glad to have been a part of that!”
Corin Dimopoulos, Sky’s Director of Cycling, said: “I’m delighted with how popular Sky Ride Bournemouth has been and also to see so many families cycling together. It is always exciting to bring Sky Ride to a new city and, through our great partnerships with Bournemouth Borough Council and British Cycling, build towards our aim of getting one million more Britons cycling regularly by the end of 2013.”
Bournemouth Borough Council’s Councillor Michael Filer, Cabinet Member for Transport and Technical Service, said: “It’s fantastic that so many people joined us in Bournemouth to enjoy this prestigious event. As a town we are keen to promote the benefits of staying fit and healthy by encouraging more people to get into cycling, and this first Sky Ride event has played an important part in that. What better place to let your bike take you than the parks, gardens and seafront of Bournemouth!”
Sky Ride Bournemouth is just one of the many ways local residents can get back on their bikes through this year’s Sky Ride campaign. Sky Ride Local rides are running every Sunday through the summer in and around Bournemouth and Dorset. Click here for more information and to find a ride near you.
