More than 15,000 turn out for a sunny Sky Ride Birmingham

15,500 people joined TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and World and Olympic Champion cyclist Victoria Pendleton MBE for Sky Ride Birmingham on 3rd July. Many more came out to watch and experience the day as cyclists of all ages and abilities took to traffic-free streets for the chance to enjoy the town on two wheels. The day marked the third event of Sky Ride 2011 - a national campaign to get one million people cycling regularly by 2013.
 
The free event hosted by Sky and British Cycling, in partnership with Birmingham City Council, allowed riders to take in the 7.5km route at their own pace whilst enjoying some of the city’s well-known landmarks and sights including the Rag and Wholesale Markets, the new Edgbaston Cricket Ground and the green open spaces of Cannon Hill and Calthorpe Parks. Participants were treated to a whole host of activities and entertainment throughout the day along the route.

Sky Ride Ambassador Lorraine Kelly said: “I had such a brilliant time in Birmingham today and it has been lovely to meet so many Sky Riders of all ages. The route was fantastic as Birmingham has such a range of iconic old buildings and new modern ones. There were also some utterly brilliant bikes; Birmingham definitely pulled out all the stops!”

Sky Ride participant Tina said: “I think it’s really, really great that they’ve closed off all the roads and the traffic to promote cycling. I think because of this I’d probably be a lot more confident cycling to work in town from now on. “

And first time Sky Rider Nora said: “I’ve brought my family along – my partner and my two little kids. It’s been a really good day – really enjoyed it. It’s a good way of getting the kids involved with riding bikes. I’ve really enjoyed today, I haven’t been out on my bike for ages.”

If Sky Ride Birmingham has given you the cycling bug, there are loads of Sky Ride Local rides, and Breeze bike rides for women, taking place in and around the city from 4th July.