Thousands tackle cycling challenge

Sep 9 2012

Thousands of cyclists have joined record breaker Mark Beaumont to collectively ride the equivalent distance of the moon and back.

Over 7500 cyclists tackled the 47 mile challenge ride between Glasgow and Edinburgh as part of the freshnlo Pedal for Scotland event.

Meanwhile, 800 people finished the 110 mile timed Sportive ride through the Southern Uplands, which this year included a tough 2400m ascent.

Freshnlo Pedal for Scotland, which is now in its 14th year, is organised by Cycling Scotland to encourage people to make everyday journeys by bike.

Many participants raised money for Maggie's Cancer Caring Centres, which has benefited from over £500,000 over the last three years from the event.

Mr Beaumont, who lives in Perthshire and holds the world record for cycling round the world, said: "The achievements of elite athletes this summer has captured the imagination of the nation, but seeing thousands of people from all backgrounds taking to their bikes today is the really important measure of how far cycling has come.

"It truly is an activity for all and I applaud each and every one of today's heroes who joined in with freshnlo Pedal for Scotland."

Ian Aitken, Chief Executive of Cycling Scotland, said: "It's fantastic to see so many people out on their bikes today .

"It's an amazing way to cap off what's been a fantastic summer for cycling. I hope that taking part has reminded all the thousands of participants how much fun it is to get around by bike.

"Once you've cycled all the way to Edinburgh, those shorter car trips start to seem a lot more manageable by bike, and I hope that the event gives people to impetus to use their bikes for more everyday journeys."