Tour de France - Stage 3 Cambridge to London

The Tour de France moves to the East of England today and Stevenage CTC have organised a special 100km ride to get close to the greatest cycling race in the world.

Stevenage CTC prides itself in knowing the best routes and places for cycling in the area. The organisers promise a great ride and a good vantage point to watch the Tour de France. The route they’ll use cycling to and from Saffron Walden is an old favourite of Stevenage CTC as it is part of their 'Emitremmus' Challenge Ride which takes place on the day the clocks change every October.

The group is meeting fellow member Phil Whitehurst who is volunteering as a Tour Maker. Phil’s role is to help spectators and offer advice on the best places to watch the riders.

It is the place I can be the most useful to others. I have seen the Tour before in the Alps and I know they go past very quickly. As a volunteer my aim is not to be the closest to the road, but to give something back to cycling by helping others. Cycling is in my blood - I cycle to work, I cycle at the weekends, I love Audaxes and sportives and I am part of Stevenage CTC.”

Phil Whitehurst
Tour Maker and CTC Member

Phil will be on duty from 7am at Great Shelford. After undergoing extensive Tour Maker training he will be kitted out in Tour Maker uniform, including a bright green hat!

Phil said he’ll be telling the Tour de France crowds: “Cycling is a wonderful way to see the beautiful countryside, so get your bike out of the shed, pop some oil on the chain and develop a new love for cycling.”

Stevenage CTC will meet on the green by Springfield House Community Centre, Old Stevenage (SG1 3EJ) at 8.15a.m.  They may have a brief break in Reed, but won’t want to miss the tour caravan which is expected in Saffron Walden at 10.50a.m.  The race is expected in the Essex town at 12.50p.m.  Everyone is welcome, although you must be comfortable cycling a total of about 100km.

Stevenage CTC is also celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The group runs a variety of cycling rides for all abilities, including 5 mile rides for beginners. Group rides are led and swept by accredited CTC leaders with a radio link.