25 Apr 2024
This summer, a new family-friendly free event will offer cyclists of all ages and any level of ability an opportunity to enjoy a ride on traffic-free roads through the heart of Glasgow.
Taking place on Sunday 9 June from 10am to 4pm, the Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle will cover a four-mile city centre route. Participants can do as many laps as they wish, hop on and off their bikes wherever and whenever they choose, and enjoy fun activities at festival zones in George Square and Glasgow Green.
The event is being staged by organisers London City Marathon Events following the resounding success of Glasgow hosting the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships – which highlighted the city’s commitment to be bike-friendly and actively encourage cycling.
Glasgow Life Chair and City Convener for Culture, Sport and International Relations, Bailie Annette Christie, said: “The huge success of the inaugural UCI Cycling World Championships in Glasgow last summer, which showcased the city’s passion for sport to a global audience, helped build a lasting legacy that has inspired so many to make cycling part of their lives.
“We’re committed to supporting people in Glasgow to enjoy cycling’s many benefits to physical and mental health and enhance their lives. The development of cycling-related activity in our communities is a priority, to encourage and enable more people – regardless of background, age, or ability – to get on a bike for recreation, sport and travel. And we’re fortunate Glasgow not only boasts a world-class velodrome that can be used by those learning to cycle as well as elite riders, but also has many great community cycling hubs and groups that help overcome barriers to take up cycling and offer activities for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
“We’re therefore delighted the city is hosting the Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle as a wonderful celebration of The Power of The Bike, and we’d encourage as many people as possible to sign up and experience what promises to be a fantastic free, fun event.”
London Marathon Events Event Director, Hugh Brasher, said: “Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle will be a wonderful addition to the rich cycling heritage of this great city. Glasgow has become one of the most accessible cities in the UK for cyclists and leads the way in demonstrating the benefits of getting out on your bike, whether it’s for your physical or mental health, or to support active travel initiatives. The event will offer a great way to ride on traffic-free roads past some of Glasgow’s most iconic landmarks, and enjoy the city with your family and friends – all at your own speed.”
Lisa Brankin, Chair & Managing Director of Ford Britain & Ireland, said: “Ford is pleased to sponsor the new Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle. Through our Park the Car initiative we promote thinking twice about using your car for short distances – and cycling is one of the alternatives we promote. We hope that Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle will encourage more people to engage with cycling across Glasgow and Scotland.”
Those who don’t own a bike can still take part in the Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle by using an OVO bike. There are more than 50 docking stations across the city, and you can click here to find the nearest. Information on how to get started is available on the OVO Bikes’ website.
The event’s two festival zones at George Square and Glasgow Green will feature a range of activities for attendees to enjoy - from bike stunt shows and street performances to cycle skills training and inclusive open cycle sessions. There will be bike maintenance help on offer, plus a range of food and drink concessions, as well as music, games, and face painting. (The George Square festival zone will be open between midday and 7pm on Friday 7 June, 10am and 7pm on Saturday 8 June, and 10am to 5pm on Sunday 9 June. The Glasgow Green festival zone will be available between 10am and 5pm on Sunday 9 June.)
More details on the Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle are available at www.fordrideglasgow.co.uk
Anyone interested in taking part on Sunday 9 June can register in advance via the website, or just come along on the day to join in.
