Durham County cricketer Phil Mustard is the latest North East sports star to get behind the 2013 Virgin Money Cyclone.
The Virgin Money Cyclone is the biggest mass participant cycling event in the UK. Since it began in 2007 over 23,000 people have taken part in the Saturday challenge alone.
Phil, who is preparing for his own marathon bike ride at the end of the cricket season in aid of the Professional Cricketers Association, said: “I have always been a cycling fan and it’s a great alternative to the gym during the close season. The Virgin Money Cyclone is well established on the North East’s calendar of sport and it is such a fun event. I can’t wait to get in the saddle for my own challenge at the end of the season.”
The Virgin Money Cyclone, in its seventh year, becomes a four day event for the very first time with the addition of the Tyne Six Bridges Leisure ride, which will be held on Thursday 27 June. This ride is aimed at families and less experienced cyclists and takes in the six famous bridges which span the River Tyne. Riders have a choice of two routes, covering nine-and-a-half or 14 miles.
Phil added: “The Tyne Six Bridges Leisure ride along the banks of the Tyne looks great for families and I am excited about the professional races on the Sunday. The speeds they generate are incredible.”
Event organiser Peter Harrison said: “2013 promises to be another exciting chapter in the history of the Virgin Money Cyclone. The event has evolved so much in seven years and I am sure that the new Thursday evening ride will become a popular part of the Cyclone landscape. I have tried to make the event one for all the family to enjoy as I think it’s important to encourage youngsters to catch the cycling bug at an early age. Last year’s Olympics proved that we do have champions out there and it would be fantastic to think that the champions of tomorrow began their cycling career taking part in the Virgin Money Cyclone.”
So far, almost 1,500 people have signed up for the Virgin Money Cyclone Saturday challenge. The deadline for entry is midnight on 23 June.
To find out more visit: www.virginmoneycyclone.co.uk