Hundreds expected to flock to 'fantastic' Nidderdale Showground on New Year's Day for major event
A “fantastic” venue at Pateley Bridge is to host a major sports event this New Year’s Day for the first time.
The Nidderdale Showground will be welcoming hundreds of competitors today for a popular off-road cycling event which is organised by Harrogate Nova Cycling Club.
The Novacross Cyclo-Cross event has previously been staged in the grounds of Ripley Castle but will now take advantage of the showground’s stunning surroundings offering competitors an off-road riding experience with a short, winding multi-lap course over a mix of grassland and tarmac.
Spectators are welcome to come along and add to the atmosphere as racing gets under way at 9.45am with the under 9s race.
There will then follow a further six races, covering categories for children, youths, women, open and veterans.
Event organiser Steve Smales said: “The showground offers a great new venue for us, particularly with its facilities, beautiful setting and proximity to the town.
"It offers a fantastic variation in terrain, which is sure to see great racing. We’re aiming to create a community event that is equally great for those wanting to be competitive and kick start their cycling season as well as people just wanting to try-out a fun sport.
Cyclo-cross, which is like a cycling version of a steeplechase running race, is growing in popularity with grass roots events similar to the Novacross fixture offering a great way for people of all ages and levels of competitiveness to test their bike handling skills as well as their levels of endurance and speed.
The event has already attracted competitors from as far afield as Hampshire and Scotland.
Steve Smales said: “Cyclo-cross is a great spectator sport too which will appeal to people who are looking to get out for some fresh air on New Year’s Day especially as the venue backs onto riverside walks and is close to Pateley Bridge’s other facilities, including the local pubs, to make a day of it.”
For further details, visit: www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/320783/NovaCross.
Harrogate Nova Cycling Club was formed in 1971.
For more information, visit: www.harrogatenova.cc.