Darlington Borough Council is proud to announce the program of Darlington cycle rides 2016.
The cycle rides, which have been attracting participants for over 30 years, have been designed to challenge serious experienced cyclists.
The Round 50 on Sunday 5 June is the first of the rides is. It takes in 50 miles of County Durham and North Yorkshire countryside and has developed into one of the most popular rides in the series and is a great opportunity to begin preparation for the longer rides.
The 70 on Sunday 3 July follows the 70 mile route created by members of Darlington Cycling Club. It heads out from Darlington to Croft, through Richmond, checks in at Barnard Castle and heads back to Darlington through Ovington, Melsonby and Middleton Tyas.
The Castles Ride on Sunday 31 July is great preparation for anyone thinking of tackling The Hell of the North in September. It is an extremely challenging 85 mile route and includes some tough climbing over Redmire and Harkerside Moors. The ride as its name suggests, is linked by local castles along the route, including Richmond, Middleham, Bolton, and Walworth Castles. Check in point is Leyburn.
The Hell of The North, which is sponsored by Solon Security and Operation Spoke, on Sunday 4 September, is the most popular of the series. The route takes in over 100 miles of spectacular scenery, through the challenging County Durham and North Yorkshire countryside and is a tough test for experienced cyclists only. The route travels through Richmond and Hawes, checks in at Kirby Stephen and returns through Middleton in Teesdale before heading back to Darlington.
Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Environment, said:
“The Darlington Cycle rides are a great way to get out and about in the glorious County Durham and North Yorkshire countryside with like-minded people in a safe environment. The 4 rides are set to challenge the more experienced cyclists, especially the Hell of the North. We look forward to seeing more people taking part as cycling continues to increase in popularity.”
For more information, including routes, price and booking information visit www.healthydarlington.co.uk/events and search cycle rides.