Thousands of spectators attended the nationally important East Cleveland Classic cycle race yesterday, Sunday 14 April.
But it wasn’t all about the elite racing. Residents and visitors also had the chance to enjoy street entertainers, music and some brilliant artwork made by villagers and shops along the route.
All that, and the sun shone which made the day even more special and helped highlight the beauty of our countryside and coast to cycling fans from across the country.
A total of 63 men took part in the later race with Rowan Baker winning and Tim Shoreman and James McKay taking second and third. Some 40 women raced in the inaugural women’s race with Cat Ferguson, Eilidh Shaw and Imogen Wolff winning the three top place.
The race started and finished in Saltburn. It also passed through Guisborough, Skelton, Charltons, Boosbeck, Lingdale and Brotton. The women raced four laps totalling 68 miles and the men six laps totalling 100 miles.
Winner of the first ever women’s race in the East Cleveland Classic cycle race, Cat Ferguson, 17, of Ilkley in West Yorkshire, said the race is one of the best in the UK. Cat, who is tipped for the very top and won despite a collision on the final climb at Saltburn, said at the Saltburn finish line:
“The views are so beautiful and there are so many supportive spectators…it’s a lovely experience being here.”
Andy Langford, Race Director, said:
"It is good to be able to bring elite racing to the area.”
Cllr Carrie Richardson, Deputy Leader of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Climate and Culture, said:
“This is one of the biggest events of the calendar and is not only fun for all the family, but a major sporting occasion.”
The East Cleveland Classic was funded by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council and the Tees Valley Combined Authority. It was also supported by the Tees Valley Community Foundation which has funded the activities.