Iconic Cycling Events has announced the launch of the Bike Bath 2020 Medal Rides, a series of self-supported rides designed to replace the annual sportive which was due to take place on 5th of July.
Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, many people across the country have been spending more time being active outside – with running and cycling more popular than ever.
However, with all cycling sportives and mass-participation sporting events cancelled or postponed until later in the year, those looking for an incentive to maintain their active lifestyle or work towards a new challenge have limited options to sign up for.
In response to this, Iconic Cycling Events have replaced this year’s Bike Bath event with a series of rides that cyclists can tackle over the summer and, should they choose one, be rewarded with a medal.
Riders will receive route details following registration and can navigate it via the new Iconic Events App.
They will also receive route notes including local highlights, an indication of facilities such as restrooms, shops, and refreshment opportunities for each route.
The Medal Rides will run until 30th September 2020, with riders of all abilities offered a choice of the best routes from across the years of Bike Bath.
Seventeen routes are available, covering short, medium, long or extra-long distances across Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire, with the option to start at any point on the route.
Riders will also have the option to celebrate their ride by signing up for a 2020 medal or one from the year of the chosen route, allowing many Bike Bath regular riders to complete their collection.
Jacko Jackson, Event Manager at Iconic Cycling Events, said: “While we are certainly disappointed not to be able to deliver the 9th Bike Bath this year, we’ve really enjoyed looking back at past routes and adapting them for this year’s Medal Rides.
“It’s going to be a fantastic day – or days, should riders choose to complete multiple routes – out!
“We have outlined a three-month window for riders to complete their chosen Bike Bath Medal Rides in order to ensure that multiple groups of riders will not to be out on the roads at the same time, but we do hope the rides can play a significant role in attracting visitors to the region’s fantastic shops, pubs and cafes this summer.
“Riders will be encouraged to tour Bath at their own pace and make small detours to visit local towns such as Devizes, Tetbury, Stroud and Frome and take in historic landmarks.
“With this in mind, if you run a café, shop or pub that you’d be keen to advertise is open to our community of cyclists, do get in touch!”
Lindsay Holdoway of HPH Property, a proud sponsor of Bike Bath and the 2020 Medal Rides, said: “HPH are delighted to support the Medal Rides and encourage active lifestyles across the region.
“We have seen a number of businesses being incredibly creative and positive despite lockdown, and Iconic Cycling Events are no exception.
“We feel this series of rides should provide some welcome variety for riders who have been out on the same routes for the past few weeks and would like a change, as well as those who would normally have taken part in sportives across the spring and summer.”
Alex Hull of Bath Recreation said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Bike Bath and the 2020 Medal rides event. Bath Recreation are passionate about promoting active lifestyles and Bike Bath are a fantastic example of this who have found a great solution during this time of uncertainty.”
Cyclists looking to raise money for a charity of their choice or Bike Bath’s supported charity, Dorothy House, are encouraged to do so.
Iconic Cycling Events can also create bespoke routes for charity and corporate groups who would like a specific local landmark included.
To sign up for one or more of the Bike Bath 2020 Medal Rides, visit: www.bikebath.co.uk.
The cost of entry is £3 per person per route, plus an eighteen pence booking fee, with optional medals available for £3.50 including postage and packaging.
Riders will also have the option to donate to Dorothy House.