This year’s Isle of Wight Cycling Festival launch on Saturday 13th September  will be an event not to miss, as the ‘Sink or Swim’ at Seaclose Park, always provides an interesting slant on cycling.

Thousands of cyclists are expected to get on their bikes, as the event offers a huge range of opportunities to cycle on the Isle of Wight and enjoy the county’s spectacular scenery in the saddle.

The nine-day cycling festival organised by the Isle of Wight Council, features over 40 rides and events and is being launched in style with a full day of activities for all the family.

The day begins with mayhem on the River Medina as spectators can watch the cycle eccentrics battle it out on their homemade pedal-powered craft, to become the first to cross the River Medina without getting wet.

Last year’s winner Raymond Belson (pictured) said:

“I think it is a great event, the reason I entered last year was because it is a very eccentric English thing to do and it is thoroughly enjoyable.”

For those keen to get in the saddle, two guided rides will depart Seaclose Park throughout the day. 

Glorious Godshill leaves the park at 11.30am and a special ride led by the Leader of the Isle of Wight Council departs at 2.00pm.

Cllr David Pugh is inviting cyclists to join him on a circular route along the Island’s cycle tracks from Newport to Cowes, across the floating bridge to East Cowes and then back to Seaclose Park via Whippingham. The leisurely ride is expected to take around two hours and people of all ages are welcome to take part.

The official opening at 12.30pm will include the presentation of a plaque to Cllr David Pugh in recognition of the Isle of Wight Council’s ongoing work with Sustrans, the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity, in developing the Island’s cycle network and delivery of the Links to Schools project which encourages pupils to cycle to school.

Throughout the day the Team MAD mountain bike stunt / trials show will be wowing spectators with their amazing display.

Wight Offroad is running a challenge course where visitors can test their offroad skills. A team of cycling instructors will also be on hand to offer advice and teach new skills to cyclists.

A DJ will provide entertainment throughout the day and a mobile ice-cream tricycle will be cycling around the site offering refreshments.

Running in tandem with the Cycling Festival launch is the Island’s Classic Car Show which promises an impressive display of over 500 classic vehicles at Newport Quay. Just a short walk from one another, why not combine these two free events to make a great family day out.

Cllr David Pugh, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council said:

“The Island’s cycling festival grows in popularity each year and I am sure this year will be no exception. With the wide range of rides and events there is something for all ages and abilities and it provides a great excuse to get out in the fresh air, benefit from a healthy activity and explore the Island on two wheels.

“I am really looking forward to leading my own ride on Saturday, as a keen cyclist I hope my enthusiasm for the sport will help encourage others to take part in more guided rides throughout the festival.

“The festival is also another excellent reason to visit the Island and now a vital part of our expanding events programme.”

For more details visit Official Isle of Wight Cycling Festival Website: Sun Sea and Cycling

Entrants were encouraged to build their own pedal-powered bike/boat, and take to the river to race against each other.  A total of 5 Riders navigated their pedal-powered vessel’s across the river Medina to avoid the water below! 

The winner this year was Dennis Adcock from Buckinghamshire, on Fast 1+2.  Dennis managed to take away the title from last year’s winner Ray Belson, by the crossing the Medina in an astonishing 2 minutes.

The official Isle of Wight Cycling Festival opening at 12.30pm included the presentation of a plaque to Cllr David Pugh in recognition of the Isle of Wight Council’s ongoing work with Sustrans, the UK’s leading sustainable transport charity, in developing the Island’s cycle network and delivery of the Links to Schools project which encourages pupils to cycle to school.

Visitors to the launch event in Seaclose Park were also encouraged to have a go at the Wight Offroad challenge course, watch the amazing Team M.A.D mountain bike stunt/trials show, and even learn new cycling skills to join in with one of the rides leading to or from the park.
 
This event as always was fun for all the family and spectators also had the opportunity to ride one of the Puckpool cycling festival swans after the riders finished.

Running in tandem with the Cycling Festival launch is the Island’s Classic Car Show which promises an impressive display of over 500 classic vehicles at Newport Quay.

Images: Copyright Photographer Paul Cronin.