International rally driver and accomplished road cyclist Matthew Wilson launched the Jennings Rivers Ride recently and called on people to take on one of three new cycle challenges in Cumbria on Sunday 18th September.
“Cycling and the Lake District are a great combination,” says Matthew. “These rides are in my backyard and I can heartily recommend them to you. All you need to do is get on your bike and ride.”
The Jennings Rivers Ride includes three stunning bike routes for cyclists of all abilities. Starting, and finishing, in Keswick, the Jennings Rivers Ride routes follow the path of the devastating effects of the 2009 Cumbrian floods from the heart of the Lake District all the way to the Irish Sea. Sections of the routes follow the affected river courses and criss-cross over many of the bridges that were either destroyed and replaced or were badly damaged during the floods.
Cycling for a Reason Cumbria Community Foundation has launched the event to raise money for local charities. People are being asked to raise funds for the Cumbria Community Foundation which supports charities throughout the county or for charities of their own choice.
“The Rivers Ride has been developed to help local charities and to raise funds for the Community Foundation,” says Andy Beeforth OBE – Director Cumbria Community Foundation. “We want the Jennings Rivers Ride to become an annual celebration of what’s best about Cumbria. We want groups from far and wide to enter teams, provide support en route and showcase their work at the Fun Day.”
The Family Ride £10
An all inclusive event that challenges youngsters (and their parents / guardians) to ride a distance of just over 8 miles through the beautiful North Lakes and taking in the rebuilt Newlands Beck Bridge.
Family Fun Day
It’s not all about cycling as the event will include a Family Fun Day in Fitz Park, Keswick at the start / finish point of the event. There will be lots of stands and fun events for all the family to enjoy and take part in.
The Middle Distance event £25
A testing but achievable cycling challenge and the route will appeal to both cycling novices (with some preparation) and experienced riders alike. The route totals close to 40 miles of lovely Lakes roads, heading out towards Cockermouth crossing Ouse Bridge and returning via the rebuilt Lorton Bridge and finishing with a climb over Whinlatter Pass.
The Big Day Out Ride £25
This is aims to challenge the more experienced rider and heads all the way out to the Irish Sea at Workington via Cockermouth. If that was not already enough, the riders return to Keswick via Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter passes to complete an epic ride of over 85 miles – although with those hills it’s sure to feel more like a hundred.
The £25 Entry Fee Includes T-Shirt, Map and Gel.
Sign up here www.cumbriafoundation.org/jennings-rivers-ride
Posted on Friday, 3 June 2011
