North-east cyclists can sign up for Great Inverurie Bike Ride

The Great Inverurie Bike Ride returns at the end of this month and cyclists from across the north-east can book their place now.

The popular event, which incorporates the Suie Classic Cycle Sportive, will operate within social distancing guidelines, offering a range of distances for participants on scenic routes.

Organised by Live Life Aberdeenshire, the event will take place on Sunday, September 27.

A Live Life Aberdeenshire spokesman said: "The Great Inverurie Bike Ride is open to all with routes of 13 miles and 25 miles. Both are open to families.

"The scenic 25-mile route remains the same as previous years – starting at Kellands Park in Inverurie, heading via Chapel of Garioch, Bennachie, Pitfichie and Monymusk, returning to the start via Fetternear and Burnhervie.

"The 13-mile route cuts off just after Chapel of Garioch and heads down to Burnhervie, then returns to Inverurie."

The 54-mile Suie Classic is for over-16s only and offers a greater challenge for individuals or teams, following quiet roads through the hills around Donside and Bennachie.

It passes through Chapel of Garioch, heads up the Lord's Throat to Keig, up Suie hill, on to Brindie and back through the Lord's Throat to join the remainder of the 25-mile route back to Inverurie.

The spokesman added: "The usual event structure has been altered to allow for social distancing. Full instructions will be emailed to all entrants in advance, but key changes include rolling starts (spaced out time slots), pre-entries only and no spectators.

"The race will be chip timed, with live online results, full race medical first aid cover and feed stations on the route. Entrants will also get a T-shirt to mark their participation."

Individual and family entries are available for both events, under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, prices and to book visit http://bit.ly/GIBR2020

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