RECORD-breaking, around-the-world cyclist, Mark Beaumont, yesterday (Monday 9 July) launched what is believed to be Scotland’s first ever, 24-hour cycling endurance track event, to raise funds for leading learning disability charity, ENABLE Scotland.
The race will take place on 5 and 6 October at Knockhill Racing Circuit and cyclists will come together in an attempt to cycle the world in 24 hours – by covering the 18, 296 mile distance cycled by Mark when he made his world record.
Mark got on his bike at Knockhill yesterday to clock up a few trial laps.
He was joined by cyclists from around Scotland who support the charity ENABLE Scotland.
Says a spokesperson: “This is the ultimate cycling challenge of the year, which will see teams of four and solo riders race day and night around the 1.3 mile circuit.
“The team and soloist with the most laps covered in 24 hours will win the coveted title and secure an invitation to be one of the first to cycle the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome when it opens this autumn.
“Top fundraisers will also win the chance to cycle the Velodrome.”
Speaking about launching the event, Mark Beaumont said: “This is a completely unique and brilliant challenge – cyclists to become ‘Le Mans’ style circuit racers for 24 hours.
“I love such imaginative physical and psychological two wheeled challenges!
“I am certainly excited to be launching one of Scotland’s most extreme cycling challenges, especially as it is raising the profile and essential funds for ENABLE Scotland, a fantastic Scottish charity.”
ENABLE Scotland’s assistant director of Funding, Hazel Mcilwraith, believes this will become an annual event which will attract cyclists from Scotland and beyond saying: “This is the ultimate cycling challenge for individual riders and teams.
“As well as embarking on an incredible personal challenge riders will also be doing something amazing for ENABLE Scotland – helping us continue supporting people who have a learning disability and campaigning to ensure every child, young person and adult is given every opportunity to make the most of life.
“I think people will see this as their one big challenge of the year and it will attract people from all walks of life.”
Throughout the event cyclists will have access to the Cycle the World rider village which will include camping facilities, 24-hour food, First Aid and mechanical support.
Knockhill Racing Circuit is Scotland’s only approved MSA and FIA Internationally-graded Circuit and is famous for hosting some the UKs major motorsport events.
From August 2007 until February 2008, Mark was cycling around the world. In 194 days and 17 hours and after 18,296 miles, through 20 countries, Mark finished back at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, breaking the previous circumnavigation world record by 81 days.
Every week in Scotland, 20 children are born with a learning disability.
The funding we receive allows us to provide services, information and advice to allow people who have a learning disability to live, work and take part in their communities – living the life they want.
Registration for this event is only £30 per person with a minimum sponsorship of £375.
Once registered riders will be able to update profiles and training information in the cycle zone.
For more information or to register visit www.cycletheworld.org.uk
or call 0141 226 4541.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by ENABLE Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Nikki Slowey
Phone: 07921657185
Email: nikki.slowey@enable.org.uk
Website: http://www.enable.org.uk
