Pedal for Scotland’s 18th year promises to be the best yet
Scotland’s biggest bike event, Pedal for Scotland, will celebrate its 18th year in 2016 and promises to be bigger and better than ever with exciting new finish line and event village.
The annual Glasgow to Edinburgh bike ride, which regularly attracts 10,000 riders, is back for its 18th year on 11 September 2016.
Marking the occasion were STV weatherman, Sean Batty, and Heart Breakfast presenters Robin Galloway and Adele Cunningham who pledged their commitment to completing the 46 mile ride in September.
Pedal for Scotland, organised by Cycling Scotland and funded by Transport Scotland, offers rides suitable for all ages and abilities. Riders can take part in the iconic 46 mile Glasgow to Edinburgh Classic Challenge, the epic 112 mile Big Belter or the family friendly Wee Jaunt Edinburgh which takes in the final 10 miles of the Classic Challenge route. Setting off from Glasgow Green, several rest stops along the way, including the famous home baking at Avonbridge and lunch in the stunning grounds of Linlithgow Palace, provide ample opportunity to rest and refuel.
All three rides will finish in the prestigious Royal Highland Centre where participants can relax and unwind in the event village or simply catch up with friends and family to enjoy the festival atmosphere.
Sean said, “I’ve taken on lots of cycling challenges to raise money for STV Children’s Appeal and in September I’ll be back in the saddle for Pedal for Scotland.
“I’m pulling out all the stops for the Appeal this year and all going well I’ll clock up 169 miles by cycling, walking and running to help Scotland’s children and young people. Pedal for Scotland will be one of my biggest challenges so I’ll be getting plenty of training in over the next few months.
“Here’s hoping for a great day with some good cycling weather and the wind at our backs!”
Robin said, “As a committed cyclist, Pedal For Scotland can’t come quick enough. It’s simply the best cycling participation event in the calendar. The family atmosphere, generous along-route-hospitality and team spirit amongst riders is hard to beat. This will be my fourth Classic Challenge and this year I’m delighted to be joined by my Heart Breakfast partner Adele, who’ll be pulling on her padded cycling shorts for the very first time.”
Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and the Islands said, “The Scottish Government is once again delighted to support Pedal for Scotland as it grows in strength both in terms of popularity and participants.
“Gathering around 10,000 participants, year on year, is a clear indicator of the efforts made by organisers Cycling Scotland and their partners, to deliver a spectacular event.
“Reports have shown Pedal for Scotland makes a significant economic contribution. With over £1million drawn in transport, accommodation and cost of cycle equipment in 2014 alone, plus up to £2 million more through health economic benefits, it is clear embracing an active and healthy lifestyle is well worth the effort.”
Keith Irving, chief executive of event organisers, Cycling Scotland said, “Pedal for Scotland is for anyone to enjoy cycling on the day and to keep cycling for everyday journeys. The event has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 1999 and this, the event’s 18th year, will be bigger and better than ever before. We are delighted to announce a new finishing venue for 2016 in the Royal Highland Centre where large numbers of finishers can celebrate with friends and family. This new venue, synonymous with Scotland’s capital, will let us celebrate in style as we bring a fun festival atmosphere to the finishers’ village.”
Participants of Pedal for Scotland can raise money for children and young people in Scotland affected by poverty by supporting the STV Children’s Appeal, who return as the event’s official charity partner. Last year participants raised over £112,000 for the Appeal, with this year’s total aiming to be even higher.
The Pedal for Scotland Classic Challenge, Big Belter and Wee Jaunt Edinburgh and will all be held on Sunday 11 September. Register online at www.pedalforscotland.org.
21/06/16 - PIC RODDY SCOTT
2016 Pedal For Scotland Launch with Sean Batty, Adele Cunningham and Robin Galloway .
