MORE than 1,000 cyclists are expected to take part in a new sporting event.

Based in Southampton, the inaugural Cycle Southampton Sporterium will take place on the June 20 and see the city turned into a cycle haven for the day with activities and races for all ages.

The ‘Sporterium’ consists of both a Sportive, a long distance ride, and a Criterium, a short circular loop.

The Sportive, will head into the surrounding countryside of Meon and Test Valley, with two distance options to choose from 60km and 100km.

The Criterium, is a short circular loop around the parks in Southampton City Centre that racers will compete in to complete the most laps possible within the allotted time in a fast-paced, high adrenaline race.

Managing director Nikki Rees said: “We are thrilled to step into the dynamic world of cycling events with the very first Cycle Southampton Sporterium event taking place in 2020.

"Having taken part in my first Sportives this year, I wanted to take our learnings from the mass participation ABP Southampton Marathon event which draws in 10,000 runners and 20,000 spectators each year and translate this across to the cycling world.

"We have some really exciting ideas for making sure the day is fun for everyone, including a ‘Spin City’ to keep visitors entertained whilst waiting for their friends and family to return from their epic ride along the Sportive, or to enjoy after their Crit race.

"We can’t wait to see everyone on their bikes in the city building up to the event and then on the big day on June 20."

Cycling has continued to grow in popularity in recent years with 12 per cent of adults in the UK now cycling on a weekly basis.

Cycle Southampton comes at an exciting time for two-wheel enthusiasts in the city with huge improvements being made to the cycling infrastructure in the city, including the new Cycle Network on The Avenue and following on from a successful Let’s Ride event this year.

The event is being organised by ReesLeisure, the team behind the ABP Southampton Marathon, Winchester Half Marathon, Southampton Sailing Week, TryTri Events and Wessex Swim School.

The event providers are expecting 1,500 riders in the Sportive, spaces are expected to sell out quickly.

Sign ups for the Sportive are now open and you can register your interest in the Criterium on our website

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