A popular charity cycling event looks set to be the biggest yet this year.
It has attracted interest from corporate riders and even from overseas, writes Stoyan Dimitrov.
The annual Brian Robinson Challenge Ride, a 70-mile loop around the South Pennines, includes the famous Holme Moss climb, considered one of the most difficult ascents in the country.
The climb will be one of the challenges facing the Tour de France riders in July when they come to Huddersfield.
Brian Robinson, of Mirfield, was a stage winner of the Tour back in the 1950s.
Clr Martyn Bolt, Mayor of Kirklees, has organised the annual Challenge Ride for eight years, with the number of riders averaging around 300.
Clr Bolt said he had been pleasantly surprised this year to get calls asking whether a company or organisation can enter the race as a team.
“I think it shows the way that interest is developing in cycling,” he said.
“We have the event organisation, the interesting topography, and, all being well, ideal weather for an early season ride.”
All proceeds from the ride will go to the Mayor of Kirklees’ chosen charity – the One Community non-profit organisation, which provides funding for voluntary groups in Kirklees. So far, some £40,000 has been raised.
Unusually for a cycling event, riders are allowed to start en masse. They are guided through the route by motorcyclists and are provided with two “feed stations” where they can get drinks and snacks.
The challenge is named in honour of Brian Robinson, the first British racer to finish the Tour de France and the first one to win a Tour stage.
Brian, who was born in Huddersfield 83 years ago, attends the annual challenge named after him to offer encouragement to participants.
Clr Bolt added: “The event was designed not as a test of speed but as a true challenge to riders of any ability.
“We are as pleased to see a rider complete the event in just under the eight-hour time limit as we are to see one of our elite riders float round in four hours.
“It is a personal challenge, not a race.”
The 2014 challenge will take place on Sunday, April 27, starting at 9am at Huddersfield New College. Riders should sign on from 7am to be ready for the start.
The entry fee is £28 in you register online, or £30 on the day.
Entry closing date 04/04/2014
To enter go via the website https:// www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/102951/Brian-Robinson-Challenge-Ride-2014#entry
