Racing

How Wales became a cycling powerhouse

A look at the rise and rise of Welsh cycling

Sportives

It is not just at professional level Wales is becoming a major part of the cycling calendar either, with the Wiggle Etape Cymru and Wiggle Dragon Ride proving to be hugely popular events.

The former, a 140km lung-busting ride through the Clwydians in North Wales, was voted sportive of the year by you, our loyal RCUK readers, last year.

The Etape Cymru takes in the stunning views of the Horseshoe Pass and the Clwydian Range in North Wales (pic: Matthew Alexander/Human Race)

The ride – which also features a ‘King of the Mountain’ timed stage on the picturesque setting of the Horseshoe Pass – has the seal of approval from Geraint Thomas and Chris Boardman among others to highlight its prestige.

Further South, the Wiggle Dragon Ride has become an even more popular sportive too and it is set to return for its 11th edition next year.

The first British sportive to be included on the UCI calendar, the Gran Fondo and Medio Fondo distances through the Brecon Beacons sell out fast every year.

And to celebrate its growing popularity, organisers also launched their inaugural Dragon Devil for 2013 – a 300km ride with more than 3,000m of climbing amid stunning Welsh scenery.