Search is on for Sky Ride cycling champions

Archived press release

Date Published: 24/05/11

Cyclists

Enthusiastic cyclists in Aylesbury Vale are being invited to come forward and train to be cycle champions as part of a new Sky Ride Local programme in the district.

Sky Ride Local are a series of small, informal cycle rides co-ordinated by British Cycling and Aylesbury Vale District Council. The group rides are led by British Cycling trained ride leaders, who guide participants along the route, and provide tips and advice on cycle safety and skills.

British Cycling and AVDC are looking for enthusiastic residents to get involved in the local Sky Ride programme for 2011. By training as a British Cycling Ride Leader, participants will be able to inspire cyclists and receive a recognised qualification. All leaders will receive training on how to prepare to lead a ride, delivering and reviewing a ride, health and safety and the code of conduct.

The training is free and provides you with a formal qualification that can be used outside of the programme, in return for the training cyclists volunteer as a leader on a minimum of four Sky Ride Local rides in Aylesbury Vale this summer.

Approximately 30 leaders are required for the launch of the 2011 programme, which is planned to run from 1 August to 31 October.

Andrew Grant, Chief Executive of AVDC, said: “We are already a district of keen cyclists, and who better to lead the way than local residents. If you are looking for a new challenge, want to meet other riders or just a family day out with a difference, apply to be a Sky Ride leader.”

Stewart Kellet from British Cycling added: “Sky Ride relies on a hugely important group of volunteers to make the events happen. Without their amazing energy, enthusiasm and commitment to get people riding, we simply wouldn’t be able to offer the Sky Ride experience. There’s a load of different things to get involved in so if you’re up for dipping your toe in the water or want to change the world, there’s something for you. Whatever the deal, you’ll hook up with some brilliant people and have a lot of fun. Along the way, you’ll help make Sky Ride a big success.

The partnership will also deliver 10 new ‘local champions for women’s cycling’ – specially trained to promote and develop bike rides for women in the district.

Sky Ride Leader training events in Aylesbury are on 28 May and 4 and 14 June. The Women’s Champion Ride Leader course will be held on 25 June.

If you are interested in becoming a Sky Ride Leader or a Women’s Champion, or for more information, please email recreation@britishcycling.org.uk or visit www.goskyride.com