SUPER sprinting cyclists considered some of the best in the world will whizz through Essex’s rural wonders at great speed before racing over a city centre finish line.
The UCI Women’s WorldTour Ford RideLondon Classique will take place across the weekend of May 26 and 28, with the first stage climaxing in Colchester.
The thrilling three-day road race – which will conclude in front of Buckingham Palace - will see the pack of international bikers initially launch into life in Saffron Walden.
It will then pass through the likes of Wormingford, Dedham and Mistley before ending in Colchester’s High Street - where large crowds will have gathered - between 2.30pm and 2.56pm.
Scott Sunderland, race director of Ford RideLondon Classique said: “This course is up and down, with twists and turns, very little flat sections, and a slightly uphill finish.
“It’s an excellent parcourse for the one-day specialists and strong sprinters.”
On previous occasions, the iconic race has attracted some of the globe’s greatest female cyclists, such as Lorena Wiebes, and this year’s event will be no different.
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David King, leader of Colchester Council, added: “This is just brilliant news for Colchester and reinforces how we want Colchester as a city to be and be seen.
Colchester is a great place and one of the best for sports, leisure, culture and history this only helps to further confirm that.
“We want sports events like this one choosing Colchester because this will give residents a real spectacle and encourage some to think of sport and activity.
“We are just so thrilled we have once again been able to attract such a high quality sporting event and such high quality athletes to our city.”
In addition to Colchester, Maldon will also benefit from all the perks of professional sprinters racing around Essex when it hosts the finale of the second stage of the race.
Speaking previously Penny Channer, leader of Maldon Council, said: “I am pleased to see this prestigious women’s race will be returning to our district.
"I hope the whole community will turn out in force to support this wonderful spectacle and cheer on the world’s best female cyclists as they reach the finish line in Maldon."
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