Beverley will again be thrown into the global spotlight this week as the town host the start of the 2018 Tour de Yorkshire on 3 May.
Key figures from the world of cycling say they are looking forward to returning to Yorkshire for this year’s installment, adding the caliber of the course is big attraction to some of the top riders in the sport.
Rio 2016 track gold medallist Owain Doull is set to be named in the Team Sky line up which includes British compatriot and two-time Omloop Het Nieuwsblad winner Ian Stannard.
Three-time Tour de France stage winner Sylvain Chavanel (Direct Énergie) is also set to compete, as is French sprint star Bryan Coquard (Vital Concept), two-time Vuelta a Espana stage victor Magnus Cort Nielsen (Astana), and 2017 Tour de Yorkshire King of the Mountain Pieter Weening (Rompot-Nederlandse Loterij).
ASO’s Tour de France Director Christian Prudhomme said;
“These high-profile riders want to visit Yorkshire because of the amazing greeting they receive. They also know the county provides amazing routes and scenery, and this year’s route looks fantastic, with something for every type of rider.
“I am looking forward to visiting Yorkshire once again and am sure the 2018 edition will be the biggest and best one yet.”
Welcome to Yorkshire Chief Executive Sir Gary Verity is thrilled to have attracted such a strong field and is looking forward immensely to four exciting days of action.
He said:
“It’s always exciting to receive the provisional start list and once again we’ve been able to attract a stellar cast of riders. I can’t wait to see them compete over the four stages, and the route we’ve laid on this year will certainly test them and deliver spectacular action.”
“The word has definitely got around the peloton about the massive crowds and unbelievable reception they will receive in Yorkshire, and I’m sure people will come out in force again to give them another hero’s welcome.”
The Tour de Yorkshire will get underway in the Beverley at 8.40AM when the ladies race start with the men’s race scheduled to depart Beverley at 1.50PM from Saturday Market.
Anyone who is looking to go into to Beverley is advised to plan ahead as there are a number of road closures in place for the event.
