Weekly cycle race is back on

The criterium series at the UCLan Sports Arena in Tom Benson Way will provide the chance for young and senior riders from across the North West to compete at a top racing circuit, every week throughout the spring and summer.

Organiser Jerrod Hartley is also taking the opportunity to raise money for the Lewis Balyckyi Trust, which sponsors young riders to train abroad, makes donations to the North West Air Ambulance, and raises awareness of road safety.

It was set up by Kevin and Jacqui Balyckyi, from Walton-le-Dale, after their son Lewis died in a collision whilst training in 2011, when he was 18.

Jerrod said: “So many people seemed to miss the racing at the Arena. I saw an opportunity to resurrect the racing and at the same time raise money for the trust and all of the good causes associated with it.

“I am a keen believer in ex-riders or parents of riders putting something back into the sport to make it sustainable for everyone.”

Kevin said he was pleased the event will support the charity, and added: “As there is no weekly cycle racing in the area now it is quite a big undertaking, and should be well attended.”

The first youths’ race will be on March 31 at 6.15pm and lasts 45 minutes. The first senior race on April 21 starts at 7.15pm and lasts an hour.