The opening round of the prestigious 2025 North West Youth League is taking place at Carlisle Cycle Circuit this weekend.
The league, which takes place at different cycle circuits across the North West, is open to cyclists up to the age of 16.
Cyclists will compete in six races throughout the day as well as, for the first time, a race for adult riders.
Members of local cycling clubs from Scotland, North Wales and across the North of England will be taking part as well as a number of riders travelling from the Isle of Man to compete.
With more than 160 cyclists entered across the seven races being held on the day, Saturday’s event is one of the largest ever to be held at the circuit.
Saturday’s event at the Harraby circuit has been organised and is being hosted by Carlisle Cycling Association.
Formed in 2018 with the primary purpose of promoting cycling across North and West Cumbria, CCA is made up of nine cycling clubs from across the local area and is based at the Carlisle’s Cycle Circuit.
Fiona Graham, association club secretary, said: “Carlisle Cycling Association has worked hard to build a reputation for running friendly and high-quality races for amateur cyclists and we are excited to welcome so many riders and hope that they enjoy not only the excellent cycle circuit but also the city and surroundings as many of our visitors will be spending the weekend in the area.
“Entries are now closed for the races but if anyone is interested in joining future events you are very welcome to come down to the cycle circuit on Saturday to see what it’s all about and find out more about the Association”.
Opened in 2018, the cycle circuit, on Edgehill Road is part of Harraby Sports Campus. The circuit is a 1km long and 6m wide traffic-free loop and is the only facility of its type in Cumbria.
As well as organising competitive race events the circuit is also used for coaching sessions by Carlisle Cycling Association throughout the winter months for both adults and children.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
Racing begins on Saturday at 9.30am, starting with the under-8s event. The final race of the day, for adults, will start at around 2.45pm.
