Member Article

AvantiGas fuels British female cycling in Ilkley

More than 35 women are expected to enter the AvantiGas Women’s Cycling Race in Ilkley next week – a 25% increase on 2014’s inaugural event.

Held as part of the annual Ilkley Town Centre Cycle Races, the women’s event is being sponsored for the second year by one of the UK’s major LPG energy suppliers AvantiGas which is providing over £1,000 in prize money across four categories of riders.

The 1.5km race, which kicks off on The Grove and includes racing around Riddings Road Hill, is open to elite cyclists and beginners, allowing those new to the sport to participate alongside established racers.

“Last year was seen by many commentators as a breakout year for women’s cycling racing with the inaugural five stage Women’s Tour and July’s La Course in Paris at the end of the Tour de France,” explained Mike Firth from event organisers, Ilkley Cycling Club.

“With the recent Tour de Yorkshire including a women’s circuit race in York, significant steps are being made in building the profile of women’s cycling and we’re absolutely delighted that AvantiGas is supporting the Ilkley event for the second year.”

AvantiGas Women’s Race will be held on Wednesday 24 June and starts at 7.45pm with the prize presentation closing the event at 9.55pm. Food and drink will be available and visitors can win up to £600 of free energy provision at the AvantiGas customised van, situated at the finish line on The Grove.

Dan Eadson, Domestic Sales Representative from AvantiGas, said that with a 33% increase in women-only road and circuit cycling events in just 12 months, the company is proud to support the sport’s growth in the UK.

“The AvantiGas Women’s Race in Ilkley has a key part to play in this growth as it encourages up and coming racers to participate alongside experienced, elite competitors, inspiring and motivating the next generation of athletes,” he said.

“As a business which specialises in supporting people off the mains gas network, we strive to support local communities and understand more about their energy needs. Our AvantiVan on The Grove is an ideal venue for meeting local people and sponsoring the Women’s Race is the perfect way of giving something back to the community.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Approach PR .