Geraint Thomas Backs Etape Cymru 2012
Posted Thursday 9th February 2012 –
Team Sky’s Welsh star Geraint Thomas has given his support to the “spectacular” Etape Cymru route in North Wales. The Etape Cymru got off to a shaky start in it’s inaugrual 2011 event but with a new organiser now running the show in the form of Participate Sport bringing their experience from running mass participation events it looks set to deliver on it’s promise in 2012.
With Team Sky making some high-profile acquisitions in January, 2012 looks to be a successful year for Thomas, and he will be an integral part of the team’s bid for glory in this Summer’s Tour de France. Speaking of the Etape Cymru, Thomas revealed he was looking forward to the event, and talked of his pride about the event that will be returning to his home country for a second year.
“The route of the Etape Cymru in North Wales is absolutely spectacular, and it makes me proud to be a Welsh cyclist” said Thomas. “I’ve got full confidence that the breathtaking scenery, closed road conditions and great Welsh hospitality will make the Etape Cymru on Sunday 9th September 2012 a very special event in the cycling calendar.”
As the event is now under new ownership for 2012, Thomas added, ”The team at Participate Sport organise great events and I’m pleased to be part of what’s going to be a fantastic day out in Wales for cyclists from all over the UK.”
The Etape Cymru will be the UK’s second closed road cyclosportive event. The 100-mile challenge takes place on Sunday 9th September 2011 and will feature over 6000 ft of climbing through the Clwydian Range, one of the UK’s most beautiful natural environments. Participants will be keen to sign up early in order to secure their place on the closed-road event. Entry costs £55 per rider, with a special package on offer to the brave riders that will attempt both the Etape Cymru and the Wiggle Dragon Ride this year. When participants register to ride both as part of the Dragon Double promotion they will receive guaranteed entry to both events for just £100.
The Etape Cymru is put together with the support of Wrexham Council, Denbighshire Council and the Welsh Assembly Government.
