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University of York

Gearing up for York summer of cycling

Cyclists by York Sport Village (credit: John Houlihan)

The final countdown has begun to a spectacular summer of cycling in York with the Tour de France and the University’s YuCycle 2014 challenge just a few weeks away.

Across the globe, 3bn people are expected to tune in to coverage of the Tour de France, with around 15m spectators lining the route.


Nicky Roche The second stage of Le Grand Départ will roll out from York Racecourse on 6 July, taking in some of York’s best known streets and landmarks before the racing starts in earnest at the edge of the city. At the helm of Le Grand Départ in Yorkshire is York alumna Nicky Roche (History, Goodricke), Chief Executive at Tour de France 2014 Ltd.

For those who have been inspired to take to the saddle, there is no need to wait until for the Tour de France to join in the fun. The University’s YuCycle 2014 challenge will take place on 22 June.

Organised by the University, York Sport and the University of York Cycle Club under the banner of British Cycling, it offers an on road suite of rides to suit all abilities with riders able to choose a 25km, 50km or a more challenging 100km ride.  Starting and finishing at York Sport Village the fully signposted routes visit some picturesque Yorkshire countryside. 

Participants will receive free training sessions before the event, as well as on-ride support and post-event refreshments kindly provided by our supporters. For those registering before the closing date of 9 June, there is also a free swim on offer at York Sport Village.


The Vice-Chancellor's YuCycle team - ‘Buzzin’ Brains, Burnin’ Legs’ York’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Koen Lamberts is leading the way with a six-strong team called ‘Buzzin’ Brains, Burnin’ Legs’. The team will ride 100 km on Yorkshire’s roads in support of the University’s Bursary Programme which supports students from lower income families.

University of York students and staff who raise sponsorship for the University’s Achieving Excellence Bursary Appeal will have their entry fee refunded, thanks to a generous (and anonymous) staff donor.  

YuCycle is supported by Cycle Alert, which is working with the University, Transdev and City of York Council on improving cycle safety, and Derwent FM Facilities Management.

Further information