From Boris to babies on bikes, the best of London’s ‘marathon on wheels’
London’s ‘biggest cycle event ever’ also labelled the ‘marathon on wheels’ saw some 70,000 cyclists hit the streets of London and Surrey for the 100 mile (160km) race on Sunday.
For some commuters it was a day in hell, but for the cyclists – and the many thousands more that showed up to cheer them on – the capital and chunks of Surrey were transformed into cycle heaven, if just for a day.
Grandmothers rode along youngsters, barely out of their training wheels, as amateurs partook in the same route as some of the world’s leading cyclists.
After a close fight, France’s Arnaud Demare won the event. More professional events will now continue for the next two days.
London Mayor Boris Johnson completed the race in a “respectable” eight hours.
“This is a great day for cycling, and for this city. Huge congratulations to everyone who took part – RideLondon is now firmly on the map as one of the greatest cycling events in the world,” he said.
The cycling festival follows Britain’s success at the Olympics last year. In fact, bicycle specialist Evan Cycles saw an 11% jump in sales in the year to Novemner, thanks to its improved website and the Olympics. Turnover too increased from £94.3m to £104.9m.
Video:
Boris Johnson launches RideLondon
Here are some of the best tweets from the Prudential-sponsored event:
Buzzing from the weekend’s #PruRL2013events? ‘Like’ us on Facebook for photos & details of how to be part of 2014! http://t.co/PjvPux83UF
— PrudentialRideLondon (@RideLondon) August 5, 2013
Terrible news after the joy of #RideLondon: cyclist killed in Archway Road this morning, 6th to die in London this year
— Ross Lydall (@RossLydall) August 5, 2013
A HUGE well done to everyone who took part in @RideLondon this weekend in support of @NSPCC! Thank you!
— NSPCC (@NSPCC) August 5, 2013
Beautiful sight – car free road by Hampton Court Palace @12.30pm. Brilliant 4 cyclists like me 🙂 @LBRUT @RideLondon pic.twitter.com/I0nkpu5BfV
— twickerman (@twickeman) August 5, 2013
If the @RideLondoninspired you to get into cycling this weekend why not try @GoSkyRide in Kent? http://t.co/PJ1X9VOeAg
— Explore Kent (@ExploreKent) August 5, 2013
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