New elite cycling race has 'spectacular' finish

Pfeiffer Georgi won the 2023 British National Road Championships at Saltburn

An elite cycling race where "only strongest riders can win" will take place in April.

The first East Cleveland Classic will be held on 14 April as part of British Cycling’s National Road Series.

The circuit starts and finishes in Saltburn with riders passing through Skelton, Guisborough, Charltons, Boosbeck, Lingdale and Brotton.

Cyclist Robyn Clay welcomed the event and said she thinks the setting will be "spectacular".

The race was set to be held on 1 October 2023 but the organisers decided to push it back to 2024 as it "better suited" teams and riders.

Finishing near the bandstand in Saltburn, the women's race will cover 68 miles over four laps while the men will complete 100 miles over six laps.

'Very special'

Robyn Clay turned professional last year and competed in the National Road and Circuit Race series events.

She said: "I think the Saltburn finish is spectacular, and very special. It’s a course that only the strongest riders can win on.

“I’m looking forward to being back in Saltburn this year and hopefully being in good enough condition to get a good result."

The race builds on the circuit used for the 2023 National Championship Road Race but has been modified and extended to pass through Guisborough.

Managing director of British Cycling Events, Jonathan Day, said: "Last year's national championships saw many of our best riders do battle against the stunning backdrop of Saltburn and we look forward to more great racing at the East Cleveland Classic in April."