Lincolnshire awarded National Road Race Cycling Championships

Lincolnshire has been awarded a part in the 2015 British Cycling National Road Race and Time Trial Championships.

British Cycling, the governing body for cycle racing in the UK, announced their decision, which will see the Time Trial Championships for women, men under 23 and elite men held on June 25 in a loop around the Lincolnshire Wolds.

This will then be followed three days later on the Sunday by the National Road Race, with the winner of the race also claiming the Lincoln Grand Prix crown.

The event could see the likes of Mark Cavendish, the current holder of the British Road Race title and Chris Froome, the 2013 Tour de France winner, pass through the county.

The news was announced by The Velo Club Lincoln Grand Prix organisers, whose chairman, Roger Hobby, is delighted by the news.

“All of us at the club are naturally delighted by the National Championships have been awarded to Lincoln. This is a well earned reward for the 60 years that Lincoln has promoted what always was a top class event but eventually evolved into the best single day event on the calendar.”

He was also full of praise for Ian Emmerson OBE, who was the man behind the bid.

“Ian Emmerson’s vision and tenacity plus the long term support of the Council, the help of the police and the enthusiasm and loyalty of the Lincoln people will ensure a must visit weekend for thousands of visitors.

“It will also create a catalyst of want to be cyclists to get on their bikes.”

Councillor Colin Davie, Executive Member for Economy and Tourism at Lincolnshire County Council has also expressed his delight.

“The Lincoln Grand Prix has been a huge success since it began and I’m delighted that the National Road Race and Time Trial Championships are to be hosted in the county next year.”

“It is a reward for all of the hard work that has been put in by The Velo Club, and by officers at the County Council.”

Written by Andy Phillips and Edward Seaman