Yorkshire businessmen launch new sporting events company

A new Leeds-based company is being launched following on from the success of the Heart of Yorkshire Sportive, a 100km cycle ride from the First Direct Arena in Leeds to Hessay York, and back.

Spearheaded by Yorkshire businessmen Paul Smith and Geoff Shepherd, Everyone Everywhere Events will organise a series of sporting events throughout the year.

The Heart of Yorkshire Sportive, which attracted 500 amateur and professional cyclists, is championed as the cycle ride that is not a race.

As well as launching the business, the team will also create a series of female only events under the banner ‘Everywoman rides’. Taking feedback from the Sportive, women shared the barriers to getting involved in mixed gender rides including the judgement and competitiveness that can be expected with some activities.

Geoff said: “The Heart of Yorkshire Sportive was a huge success, we really couldn’t have planned the weather and the turnout was simply fantastic. It’s now up to us to make it bigger and better and we intend to encourage up to 1,000 entrants next year.

“The one thing we did notice is that less women than men were registering. When we asked why the overwhelming response was fear of judgement. We then asked if it would make a difference if we had a female only event and the feedback was that this would be the preferred option. As such, we decided to develop Everywoman Rides.

“In the same way that park runs and charity events have broken down barriers, we are hoping this will do the same. The basic principle is simple; we want people to feel comfortable and to have fun while they take part in sporting activities.”

Everyone Everywhere Events will create a series of sporting activities throughout the year that will be shared on a website. In addition, the open source platform will give sports groups and individuals the chance to promote their own events.

Paul Smith commented: “We’re looking forward to getting more people out, about and active. What better way to spend some spare time than by meeting new people, having a laugh and keeping yourself fit and healthy in the process, without fear of judgement.”

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