Successful Women’s Tour helps put town on cycling map
Tens of thousands of people turned out to enjoy a day of world class cycling when the OVO Energy Women’s Tour returned to Chesterfield for the race’s challenging fourth stage.
For the second time in two years, the world’s top teams raced their way from Chesterfield through Derbyshire, battling it out on the county’s tough hills and steep descents.
Brought back to the county by Derbyshire County Council and Chesterfield Borough Council, people flocked from near and far to cheer on the competitors.
Lots of family-friendly events took place in Chesterfield, including trying out balance bikes and cycling for school children in Queen’s Park on the morning of the race.
Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s deputy leader, said:
“The people of Chesterfield and Derbyshire have shown that they love sport, they love women’s sport and they love cycling. We’ve had schoolchildren today having a ride and getting involved. We’ve been able to make a big family day of it. It’s been amazing.”
Councillor Simon Spencer, cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, hailed Saturday’s race a great success. He said:
“It was a fantastic event, showcasing the world’s best cycling talent.
“Tens of thousands turned out to see it and the Derbyshire crowds did us proud, cheering on the riders along the route as well as in Chesterfield where it started and finished.
“Derbyshire is a great place to cycle, for beginners to the most experienced riders as well as the sport’s elite, and I’m really pleased we were able to showcase the county again at this great event.”
In Belper and Staveley crowds cheered on the cyclists during the sprint challenges. And at Middleton Top and Crich, many turned out to encourage the riders in the tough Queen of the Mountain climbs. Winner of Stage 4 in Derbyshire was Sarah Roy of the Orica-Scott team.
Giving out the awards at the end of the hotly-contested race were Chairman Councillor Linda Chilton from Derbyshire County Council and the leader of Chesterfield Borough Council Councillor Tricia Gilby.
Councillor Spencer added:
“Derbyshire is a great place to live and it’s also a great place to visit. Bringing world class events to the county not only gives local people something to celebrate, it also helps bring in visitors. I’m delighted we were able to put on such a good show.”
