The ScottishPower Renewables Criterium Series, Scotland’s premier circuit race event, kicks off on Saturday 23 May in Dumfries and Galloway and continues an exciting year for Scottish cycling.

The first races will take place as the finale to The Original Bicycle Festival, with events in Castle Douglas on 23 May and Dumfries on 24 May. The series then takes in new events in Aberdeen (4 June) and Hawick (16 August), venues which will both welcome the series for the very first time. Also in August will be races in Bellahouston (22 August) and Marymass in Irvine (23 August), which have both hosted successful Criterium race days.

Each circuit is approximately 1km and riders will race for an hour plus five laps. There will be five opportunities for cyclists to compete; under-12, under-16, youth, elite, women and a support race.

Chief Executive of Scottish Cycling Jackie Davidson says: “The Criterium Series is a great day out for riders and spectators, as they see the competitors speeding round the circuits. This is an exciting time for cycling in Scotland and it will be interesting to see who, out of the experienced riders and emerging talent, takes away victory from these fast-paced races.”

Keith Anderson, director of ScottishPower Renewables (SPR), sponsors of the Criterium Series, adds: “With up to 300 riders battling it out at each of the races, these events will be fantastic to watch. We are really excited about being involved in the Criterium Series again, and to giving support to young Scottish cycling talent.”