Not long until the 2010 Cycling Festival. Here’s a reminder of what’s on offer from the council. Ed
The Island’s annual cycling festival kicks off on Saturday 18 September with a host of two-wheeled activities for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
The nine-day festival is officially launched at County Hall car park in Newport with bike stunts from the MAD display team, magic shows and fun for all the family.
Day long launch event
The event runs from 10am until 4pm alongside the Classic Car Show which is taking place at Newport Quay.
It is a great place to find out about all of the festival’s rides and pick up maps and route information.
Sink or Swim Challenge returns
As well as a collection of bikes through the ages from Solent Veteran Cycling Club, an obstacle course for kids and cycling safety information, the launch event also includes the crazy sink or swim challenge nearby.
Cyclists will battle it out on their pedal-powered floating machines to become first to cross the River Medina. Those taking part should meet at County Hall car park at 10.30am
61 rides over the festival period
One of the first rides of the festival is a ride along the cycle track from Medham near Cowes to the launch event in Newport. Meet opposite Northwood Garage at 11am, no booking necessary.
This year the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival is offering more rides than ever before. With 61 rides to choose from there really is a ride for everyone.
Rides range from gruelling off-road challenges to gentle rides through the Island’s unspoilt countryside. There are cycle maintenance classes, charity rides, round the Island rides and plenty for children too. Teddy bears picnic at the farm on Sunday 19 September is a chance for under 8’s to explore Nettlecombe Farm by bike and meet the animals before having a picnic. Families can also take part in an ice cream ride and the Tykes, trikes and Echium spikes ride, a gentle amble around Ventnor Botanic Garden for toddlers and young children.
Details of all the rides can be found online or in the festival programme which can be picked up in bike shops, tourist information centres and libraries.
Image: cobber_cpd under CC BY 2.0
