Tour de Yorkshire announces women’s race

Starting on Friday, May 1 the international cycling event takes place in three stages and the final stage will start in Wakefield city centre on Sunday, May 3.

The women’s race takes place in York on Saturday, May 2 from 11am.

It will be held over four laps of a 20km circuit and British cycling licensed riders will be able to enter.

A women’s only mass participation cycle ride – the Cycletta – will also take place in Wakefield on Sunday, May 3.

Organisers hope hundreds of women will take part and see the health benefits of taking up cycling.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity said: “We promised from the start to bring more women’s racing to Yorkshire’s roads and by hosting this race and taking advantage of the spectators, race infrastructure and media spotlight already on York that day, we’ll show women’s racing off to the world.”

President of British Cycling Bob Howden said: “This is a fantastic new addition to the calendar and a great showcase for women’s racing.

“The York circuit is set for huge crowds and a superb atmosphere so we look forward to an action packed day.”

Stage one of the race begins in Bridlington and finishes in Scarborough.

Stage two will begin in Selby and finish in York, while the third stage starts in Wakefield and will finish in Leeds.

To enter the race visit www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/128520/Women’s-Tour-de-Yorkshire.