Foreign riders tempted to tackle Yorkshire’s Pennine hills

The Brian Robinson Challenge Ride, in honour of Yorkshire’s pioneering Tour de France stage winner, is a testing 70-mile loop which includes the Holme Moss climb, near Huddersfield, which will feature in the Grand Depart in July.

Previous rides have attracted around 300 riders but organiser Martyn Bolt is expecting a bigger turnout following enquiries from organisations and businesses who want to enter corporate teams.

“I think it shows the way that interest is developing in cycling when it reaches this stage.

“I know we have the event organisation, the interesting topography and all being well, ideal weather for an early season ride,” said Martyn.

“The ride is rare in cycling terms in that riders are usually allowed to start en masse to offer the riders a feel of being in the professional peloton.

“They are guided around the route thanks to the support of West Yorkshire’s advanced motorcyclists and have two feed stations to replenish their drinks and nibbles.”

The event on Sunday, April 27 at Huddersfield New College, New Hey Road, Salendine Nook, Huddersfield supports the Kirklees Mayor’s Charity Appeal.