Fancy trying out some of the Tour de Yorkshire route before the pros do? With the Steel Gravel Tour, now’s your chance! On Saturday 22nd April, the event starts and finishes at Full Gas Bikes, Fox Valley, the same place where thousands of spectators will watch the climax of the 2017 Tour de Yorkshire bike race a week later on Sunday 30th April.
Entries to the Steel Gravel Tour can be found online at www.steelgraveltour.wordpress.com, places are limited and close on 17th April, so you are advised to enter soon to secure your place.
The 70 km (44 mile) route is made up of gravel tracks and scenic country lanes and is designed to be ridden on any bike you like, from a road bike to a mountain bike, although a gravel, cyclocross, xc mountain bike or hybrid type bike will be the best option for the mix of terrain on route.
Riders will cover the ‘Stocksbridge loop’ section of the Tour de Yorkshire route, including three of the four categorised climbs the professionals will be tackling, as well as other scenic routes in the surrounding area.
Highlights include a yellow, blue and white themed fancy dress competition, being judged by the Mayor of Stocksbridge, with prizes from Cotic bikes. A woodland tea party will be on route, supported by Stocksbridge Town Council, where cyclists can refuel with a hot drink and a slice of cake.
The funds raised from the event will go to the Steel Valley Project, a countryside management charity, details of which are available on their website at www.steelvalleyproject.org.
The event organiser, Tom Newman said: ‘The Tour de Yorkshire coming to town is a truly amazing opportunity to see pro cyclists compete on our doorstep. The Steel Gravel Tour is the perfect way to get in the mood for the event and event scope out some good places to spectate!’
The event organisers are looking for volunteers to help out on the day, contact the Steel Valley Project at info@steelvalleyproject.org or 0114 2830880 to register your interest.
