Report

6,000 people joined TV star Jeff Brazier, Great Britain Cycling Team’s Ross Edgar and Team Sky’s Alex Dowsett for the first ever Sky Ride Ipswich on Sunday 12th June 2011. Many more came out to watch and experience the day as people of all ages and abilities took to traffic-free streets for the chance to enjoy the town on two wheels. The day marked the second event of Sky Ride 2011 – a national campaign to get one million people cycling regularly by 2013.

The free event hosted by Sky and British Cycling, in partnership with Ipswich Borough Council, allowed riders to take in the 6km route at their own pace. Participants were treated to a whole host of activities and entertainment throughout the day along the route. With live music, a marketplace, and demonstrations from the Sky Sports Living for Sport Flatland BMX-ers, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Stars from the worlds of cycling and TV took time out to help less experienced riders, chatting with participants in the British Cycling Bike Cafe. And there was plenty of entertainment for young people including a Go-Ride racing course where youngsters tested their racing skills and got great tips from pros and British Cycling coaches.

Local residents Peter, Helen and their son Toby enjoyed the ride: "We know Ipswich really well and they've laid the course out very well – no cars is really nice. We don't ride as much as we should; we've got three lovely bikes and we should really get out more, but after today I think this should kick us into going out on them more often. We'll have a look on the website to find out where there are more rides in the area."

As well as taking part in Sky Ride Ipswich, local residents are also being asked to take part in a nationwide poll and nominate their favourite hill to cycle down in the region. Backed by multiple world and Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy, the nationwide search will see the ultimate cycling descent being crowned the UK’s Perfect Hill.

Sky Ride Ambassador Jeff Brazier commented: “It’s been a fantastic day here at Sky Ride Ipswich, with people of all ages getting back on their bikes and enjoying cycling around the town on traffic-free streets. I just hope that all 6,000 people that have taken part today will be inspired to start cycling more regularly and continue to have fun on two wheels.”

Corin Dimopoulos, Sky’s Director of Cycling, said: “I’m delighted Sky Ride has come to Ipswich this year and that so many people of all ages and abilities have been able to enjoy cycling through the town. Through our great partnership with Ipswich Borough Council and British Cycling, we hope to build towards our aim of getting one million more Britons cycling regularly by the end of 2013.”

Cllr Bryony Rudkin, leisure portfolio-holder for Ipswich Borough Council, said: “This was great fun and fantastic to join friends and neighbours all cycling around a car-free town centre in safety. I want to thank Sky and British Cycling, along with all the local clubs and individuals who came along, for making this such a brilliant event. It was also a great occasion for us to promote cycling and other healthy activities we have in place here in Ipswich.”