Sport's elite prepare for circuit test
THE first circuit cycling event to be held in Brighouse caught the imagination of the hundreds who turned out to watch this gripping spectacle.
The event returns on Tuesday June 10 and organisers are promising that it will be bigger and better than last year.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 spectators watched some of the country's best cyclists hurtle round the tight turns and speedy straights of Brighouse town centre.
More are expected on Tuesday when riders compete for points in the prestigious British Cycling Elite Circuit Series Round Four.
This event has been upgraded following the success of last year's race which so impressed the sport's hierarchy.
Riders compete for points over a series of races in much the same way as F1 grand prix drivers. The title goes to the rider with the most points gathered over the 13 rounds.
One of the organisers of the event, Michael Lever, said it was a great coup for Brighouse to be included on the championship circuit after just one year.
"To be included in the elite circuit series based on one event is fantastic," he said. "The Brighouse public who came out in force to support the event can take a lot of the the credit."
The three riders who made the podium last year, Tom Barras, Simon Holt and Andy Tinsley, are back this year but cannot expect to have it all their own way – a total of 55 elite riders will be battling for position in the hour-long test which is due off at 8.20pm.
Riders expected to have a say in the outcome include last year's series winner Simon Gaywood, James McCallum and the Downing brothers, Russ and Dean.
Racing starts at 7pm with an event for seniors, women and juniors. This covers 18 miles and has attracted a maximum field of 60.
This is followed by a youths race at 7.50pm in which riders aged between seven and 16 will compete.
Commentator on the night will be Eurosport cycling expert Mike Smith and main sponsors are again Dews Motor Group and Calderdale Council.
Many of the town's restaurants, cafes, shops and takeaways are expected to be open throughout the evening.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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