Thousands of cyclists descend on the University for Velothon Wales
12 June 2015
University buildings provide backdrop for Wales' first ever Velothon Majors event
Up to 15,000 cyclists will pass through the surroundings of the University this weekend [13-14 June] for the first ever Velothon Wales event.
After taking in some of Wales' most breath-taking sights, riders will be greeted by thousands of spectators at the race finish line in front of the University's Glamorgan Building.
The Glamorgan Building will also play a central role in the event logistics on the day, housing the press room, event control and a central office for officials from the International Cycling Union (UCI).
Velothon Wales is the latest addition to the UCI Velothon Majors—a world series of cycling events in which cycling enthusiasts get the chance to ride along the same course as some of the world's best professional teams and riders.
Other events in the series include Velothon Berlin, Velothon Vienna and Velothon Philadelphia.
Wales has been selected as a host for a Velothon Majors Series event as a result of the surge in popularity of cycling in the last few years, as well as the provision of two truly stunning routes: a challenging 140 km route for experienced riders and a 50 km route for those looking for a slightly less intense day in the saddle.
Riders embarking on the 140km route will start off in Cardiff city centre before making their way along the coast road to Newport, taking in stunning views over the River Severn and the Celtic Manor and surrounding area.
The route then takes riders up to Abergavenny before heading up to Llanfoist for The Tumble climb in the Brecon Beacons, where the King and Queen of the Mountains challenge will take place along the famous 6 km stretch of road.
After tackling The Tumble, riders will then begin their return journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Blaenavon before finishing in front of Cardiff University's Glamorgan Building.
The main event is being held on Sunday 14th June and will form part of a weekend of activities, kicking off with a junior event taking place around Cardiff's civic centre on Saturday 13th June.
A University staff team—Cardiff University Staff Pedallers—will be taking part in the event, wearing specially branded cycling tops and raising money for the MS Society.
The University's Main Building will also provide the backdrop for the presentation ceremony after the main race on Sunday.
The event follows the University's sponsorship of the World Half Marathon Championships, which take place on Saturday March 26 2016.