ARRANGEMENTS for the 23rd Great Inverurie Bike Ride have been announced by Aberdeenshire Council.
The event will be held on Sunday, June 14, beginning at noon.
The course follows a 25-mile route through the Garioch area, taking the riders through some spectacular scenery.
The course begins at Kellands Park, Inverurie, with cyclists then travelling to Chapel of Garioch, over to Bennachie, Pitfichie and M
onymusk, before returning to the start via Fetternear and Burnhervie. The event is open to riders of all ages and abilities.
The 2009 Bike Ride is raising money for CLIC Sargent, Cash for Kids and ChildLine and for Aberdeenshire Disability Sport, which is the local branch of Scottish Disability Sport and Special Olympics Grampian.
And for the first time, the event will be raising funds for Aberdeenshire Disability Sport, which is the local branch of Scottish Disability Sport and Special Olympics Grampian.
Event organiser Fiona Murray said: "We had a great turn out last year with around 600 cyclists of all ages and abilities.
"We are pleased to include Aberdeenshire Disability Sport and Special Olympics Grampian this year in addition to our main charities. These groups work tirelessly to provide opportunities for local people with a disability to take part in sport."
Entry for the event costs £10 per person, which includes a souvenir t-shirt and the race number. Participants also have the opportunity to have their race chip-timed if desired.
There are four ways to enter:
• Using the online payment system with debit card via the Aberdeenshire Council website www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/recreation/events/gibr.asp
• Download an application form from the Aberdeenshire Council website and send it to Gordon House, Inverurie, with a cheque for your entrance fee
• Entry forms are available from leisure centres and libraries
• Phone (01467) 628283 and request a form
Those interested in taking part are being asked to register before Monday, June 8, to allow organisers to get an idea of numbers riding on the day.
Along the way cyclists can stop of at Monymusk Village Gala for refreshments and entertainment. There will be a barbecue, cream teas, musical entertainment as well as children's activities and stalls. The Street Sport mobile football arena will also be present.
Aberdeenshire Council is working with its partners to promote cycling and will be on hand with promotional information on the day, information on local cycling clubs and bike safety and maintenance checks.
