In an echo of the cycle races held in the park between 1944 and 1959, Central Park provided the stage for a cycling festival on Sunday, 12th May 2013. Known as the ‘Skyride’ after its main sponsors Sky Television, the event included a three-kilometre circuit and many side shows. It was reported on local news website, Devon 24/7, like this:
Nearly three thousand people took to their bikes to enjoy the first big Sky Ride event of 2013 in Plymouth on Sunday (12 May).
A sea of florescent bibs could be seen at Central Park today as thousands got on their bikes to enjoy Plymouth’s second Sky Ride city event.
Joining professional Team Sky cyclist Jonathan Tiernan-Locke cyclists of all ages and abilities took part in the mass bike ride around Central Park. The day marked the first Sky Ride event of 2013 – part of a national campaign to get people on a bike and discover the fun that can be had.
The free event hosted by Plymouth City Council, British Cycling and Sky allowed riders to cycle the two mile circular route around the park at their own pace. Starting at the Clock Tower the route went past Plymouth Argyle grounds and the Plymouth Life Centre before heading through the park past the pitch and putt green and returning to the clock tower.
Participants were treated to a whole host of activities and entertainment throughout the day including Bikability sessions (what used to be called cycling proficiency), BMX stunt shows, bike maintenance workshops and free taster sessions at the Plymouth Life Centre.
Plymouth City Council’s Cycling Commissioner Councillor Philippa Davey said: “It’s really good to see so many people coming together to enjoy a fun day out in the city. If you missed out on today don’t forget we run smaller Sky Ride’s throughout the summer – just check out our website.”
Brian Johnston, British Cycling Recreation Manager said: “It’s very apparent that more and more people are taking up cycling since the Olympics last year. I’m really pleased with the turnout today, it’s been fantastic. I just want to encourage more and more people to get involved in the whole programme – there is lots going on, the fun doesn’t stop here!”
Plymouth hosted their first Sky Ride event last year which saw over 7,000 people cycling through traffic-free streets for the one-off chance to enjoy the city on two wheels. This year’s event was on a smaller scale but still attracted nearly 3,000 individuals.
