Cycling festival returns as a new coastal challenge
Cyclists of all ages and abilities are being invited to take part a new challenge event introduced as the Angus Cycling Festival returns.
The free event aims to celebrating cycling, active travel and the spectacular Angus coastline.
Taking place on Saturday, September 5, 10am-4pm, the Angus Cycling Festival – Coast Challenge transforms National Cycle Network Route 1 into a day-long cycling event, with eight activity stations stretching between Arbroath and Dundee.
Participants can start at any location, travel in either direction and ride at their own pace.
Each activity station will feature free cycling activities and fun challenges. Designed to be inclusive and welcoming, the festival is suitable for individuals, families, groups, experienced cyclists and those new to cycling, including riders using adapted or non-standard cycles.
Participants can collect a Festival Stamp Card from any activity station and receive a stamp at each location they visit. The first 100 participants at each activity station will receive a prize that forms part of a mini bike care kit.
Those who collect all eight stamps and complete the Coast Challenge will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal (while stocks last). In addition, the first 100 participants to complete the full challenge will be entered into a prize draw for a selection of larger cycling prizes.
Free bikes, including electric bikes, will be available to hire for those who do not have their own.
An emergency support vehicle will patrol the event throughout the day and assist participants in getting safely back to their destination if required.
Activities include:-
- Smoothie bikes, where participants can pedal their way to a freshly blended healthy smoothie.
- Art bikes that transform your pedalling into unique spin paintings.
- Behind-the-scenes tours.
- Free indoor bike park sessions.
- Dr Bike safety inspections and minor repairs.
- Bike maintenance workshops.
Activities will operate on a first come, first served basis. As places and supplies are limited for some activities, participants are encouraged to visit their favourite activity stations early to avoid disappointment.
James Beattie, director of operations at organisers CycleHub.Org, said: “We’re excited to welcome back the Angus Cycling Festival in the form of the Coast Challenge. The event has a legacy of encouraging people to cycle from its humble roots in 2014 at Reid Park in Forfar where it had a significant economic impact to the local economy.
“This is merely one inspiring by-product of enabling cyclists to get active and enjoy the thrill of riding bikes. Our ambition is to ensure that we can capitalise on the incredible infrastructure that has been developed along the route in the last few years.
“By working with local partners, we have established activities at every town on the route. We feel that the Angus Cycling Festival Coast Challenge can be an event accessible to everyone at any ability whether resident or visitor.”
For more information, call 01382 913538, email [email protected], or visit www.dundeecyclehub.com/acf. Follow Dundee Cycle Hub and Angus Cycle Hub on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements.