Sigma Sports Pedal Power and Pizza: Cyclists Enjoy a Taste of the CiCLE Classic in Rutland, Information about tomorrows Cicle Classic here in Rutland, A message from Leicestershire Police Beat Officer for Oakham.
Pedal Power and Pizza: Cyclists Enjoy a Taste of the CiCLE Classic in Rutland
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Oakham and the picturesque county of Rutland were buzzing with cycling enthusiasm today as riders took part in the Sigma Sports CiCLE Classic Sportive. The event, hosted by the local Sigma Sports store on South Street, offered cycling enthusiasts a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the challenging and beautiful terrain that will feature in tomorrow's prestigious Rutland International CiCLE Classic race.
From 8:30 am, cyclists gathered at the Sigma Sports store, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air as they prepared for their rides. Two routes were on offer: a challenging 100km option for the seasoned riders, setting off in the morning, and a more leisurely 50km route for others, who departed from 10:30 am. Both routes treated participants to stunning views of Rutland's rolling countryside, allowing them to soak in the scenery at their own pace.
The sportive provided a unique chance for amateur cyclists to sample sections of the very roads and notorious off-road sectors that the professional racers will tackle in the CiCLE Classic tomorrow. While today's ride was purely for enjoyment, it undoubtedly offered a newfound appreciation for the skill and endurance required to compete in the international event.
The perfect end to a day in the saddle awaited the riders back at the Sigma Sports store. The promise of hot, wood-fired pizza proved a welcome reward, allowing participants to refuel and share stories of their ride in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Today's sportive serves as a fantastic prelude to the main event tomorrow, the Rutland International CiCLE Classic. After being unfortunately cancelled last year due to severe flooding, the race is back with renewed vigor, marking its 20th anniversary with a significant change: for the first time, the start and finish line will be located in the heart of Oakham town centre.
This year's edition boasts an impressive international field, with over 170 riders from teams hailing from the Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and Italy, all vying for victory on the challenging 177km (109-mile) course. Adding to the excitement, a Great Britain team featuring current Olympic and World champions will also be competing.
For those wishing to witness the thrilling action, race director Colin Clews has provided approximate timings for key locations along the route:
- Start in Oakham: 11:00
- Wymondham: 11:00 – 12:15
- Ashwell: 12:20
- Oakham: 12:30
- Cold Overton: 12:45
- Somerby/Owston/Burrough: 12:50-14:30
- Stapleford: 14:45
- Wymondham: 15:00
- Market Overton: 15:05
- Cottesmore: 15:10
- Ashwell: 15:20
- Burley on the Hill: 15:25
- Ends in Oakham: 15:35
Given the town centre finish, significant traffic disruption is anticipated in Oakham between 15:00 and 16:00 BST. Road closures will affect the area from the level crossing through to Burley Road, Burley Parkway Island, and the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial.
Race director Colin Clews acknowledged the potential inconvenience, stating, "This year the race enters uncharted territory with the finish in Oakham, but a challenge which we feel will be very much worth the effort with Rutland County Council offering strong moral support to the event." He urged anyone who might be affected by the closures to "plan their routes and timing of their travel accordingly."
Today's successful sportive has undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting day of international cycling in Rutland tomorrow. With world-class riders set to tackle the challenging terrain and a vibrant atmosphere building in Oakham, it promises to be a memorable event for both participants and spectators alike.
Heads Up, Oakham! Road Closures for the Return of the CiCLE Classic Tomorrow
A message has been issued from Leicestershire Police Beat Officer for Oakham, PC 1049 Jake Spruce, regarding temporary road closures in Oakham tomorrow, Sunday, April 27th, as Rutland welcomes back the prestigious CiCLE Classic for 2025.
Cycling enthusiasts and spectators alike are gearing up for the international road race, and to ensure the smooth and safe running of the event, Rutland County Council will be implementing several temporary road closures throughout the day.
Key road closures in Oakham on Sunday, April 27th, between 8 am and 5 pm will include:
MILL STREET
MARKET PLACE
GAOL STREET
HIGH STREET (between the Burley Road and Church Street junctions)
Later in the day, between 3 pm and 4 pm, further closures will be in effect on:
STATION ROAD
BURLEY ROAD
HIGH STREET (up to the level crossing)
In addition to the road closures, parking restrictions will be in place along both sides of HIGH STREET, from the junctions of CHURCH STREET to MILL STREET, as well as in MARKET PLACE.
While these necessary closures are being implemented by the council, PC Spruce kindly requests the patience and cooperation of all residents and visitors. He acknowledges that there will likely be some delays along the entire race route as the peloton tours the county.
Despite the potential for temporary disruption, PC Spruce emphasises the fantastic opportunity the CiCLE Classic presents for the local community. Leicestershire Police officers will be present throughout the day to support event organisers and the council with managing the road closures, and most importantly, to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. PC Spruce extends a friendly invitation to say hello or wave if you see the officers on duty.
Finally, PC Spruce offers words of encouragement to anyone participating in the event, wishing them good luck. For those planning to watch the thrilling race unfold, he simply wishes everyone an enjoyable day of world-class cycling action in Rutland.
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