CYCLISTS keen to begin racing have the chance to get into gear at an event near Morpeth this month.
The Barnesbury Road Race which starts at Stannington is open to fourth category riders only.
This is the starting point for riders wanting to take part in official races under the rules of the British Cycling Federation, as its category system go
es from fourth upwards to third, second, first and elite.
The 30-mile race over fairly flat roads starts at 3pm on Saturday, July 18. It goes along Church Road and Green Lane, then past Saint Mary's over Well Hill and through Tranwell Village.
It continues on to Gubeon where the circuit section is and the race then completes three circuits around Gubeon, Twizzel, over Saltwick Hill and through Tranwell Woods back to the Morpeth/Whalton road.
Mid-race points, known as 'Primes', will be on Saltwick Hill and they will count towards the overall 'King of The Mountains' competition. This hill will also be where the race finishes on the fourth time round the circuit.
Event Organiser Christopher Gray said: "It is an ideal race for anybody who has never raced before, or maybe people who gave up racing a few years ago.
"You don't need to have a racing licence to compete, as you can get a day licence on the day, and it is a regional C+ race so points will be awarded, which is a rare thing in Northumberland for fourth category riders."
Entries can be made on the day, but advance entries are preferred. For more information, contact Mr Gray by telephone on 07511 680040, or e-mail cngray@hotmail.co.uk
