Pro cyclists will ride alongside amateur racers and leisure riders in the support events to the Beaumont Trophy.
Riders from Team IG-Sigma Sport will take part in two events to be held as part of the 2013 Virgin Money Cyclone: the Tyne 6 Bridges family and beginner rides (Thursday June 27) and the 4,000-strong Cyclone Challenge mass participation ride on Saturday June 29.
Becky Frewing, general manager of Team IG-Sigma Sport, said the support events were ideal preparation for the Premier Calendar race on Sunday June 30.
“Our riders love the stunning scenery and the warm welcome they always get riding in the North East,” she said.
The four-day event climaxes on Sunday June 30, with the Curlew Cup elite women’s race in the morning and the Beaumont Trophy for elite men, in the afternoon.
Team IG-Sigma Sport will contest the Beaumont Trophy with other top domestic teams. The race was won in 2011 by Bradley Wiggins (Team Sky), and last year by Russell Downing.
Some 4,000 riders will roll out over three distances (33, 63, and 104 miles) on Saturday June 29 for the Virgin Money Cyclone Challenge Rides.
Criterium racing will be held in Leazes Park, close to Newcastle city centre, with classes from junior to elite, on Friday June 28.
The Virgin Money Cyclone weekend opens on Thursday June 27 with the Tyne 6 Bridges rides. Two family-oriented routes, of 9.5 miles and 14.5 miles, are offered along the banks of the River Tyne.
Organiser, Peter Harrison, said: “The Virgin Money Cyclone is well known for offering something for all riders – from beginners to pros.
“I am really pleased to be able to give all sorts of riders the chance to ride alongside their cycling heroes at the 2013 event.”
Entries for the event, to be held from Thursday June 27 to Sunday June 30, are open.
