SHIMANO AND MADISON CONTINUE NORTHERN ROCK CYCLONE SUPPORT

[veloriders]

Shimano is to sponsor the Northern Rock Cyclone weekend for the fourth year running, thanks to a new deal with UK distributor Madison. For 2010 Shimano will be a major sponsor of the whole Northern Rock Cyclone – including the Leazes Criteriums, Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge Sportive and Beaumont Trophy Premier Calendar road race.

Shimano’s support will include a Shimano Service Centre at the start of the Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge plus two service cars out on the routes offering technical support for all riders in the event. It will also provide the service cars for neutral support at the Beaumont Trophy.

Commenting on the news, Madison marketing director Will Fripp said: “Madison is proud to be continually associated with the Northern Rock Cyclone. We hope our help and support can help the Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge to become the UK’s biggest sportive.”

He added: “The whole weekend is a great event and the format of pro’s riding on the Friday and Sunday and Sportive riders on the Saturday make for a real carnival atmosphere. There is something for everyone that’s passionate about cycling.
Northern Rock Cyclone organiser Peter Harrison said: “I’m thrilled to have Shimano on board again for 2010. Offering support to both pro and sportive riders is a massive boost for the Northern Rock Cyclone weekend and is helping us turn it into something even bigger and more special.”

The Northern Rock Cyclone is a top weekend of cycling in Newcastle and Northumberland. The weekend kicks off on the evening of Friday 11 June with the thrilling wheel-to-wheel racing of the Leazes Criterium races in Newcastle’s Leazes Park.

The Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge takes place on Saturday 12 June and is the biggest sportive in England. With great feed stations, support, a photo of every rider available and a free certificate available for every rider, it is also one of the best supported.

The Northern Rock Cyclone weekend comes to a head on the Sunday with the Beaumont Trophy Premier Calendar race. Won in 2009 by Bradley Wiggins, the race takes in the beautiful countryside – and challenging riding – of the Northumberland countryside.

Full details, including routes and online entry details for the Northern Rock Cyclone Challenge are available at www.northernrockcyclone.co.uk. You can also follow the event on Twitter at www.twitter.com/nrcyclone and by joining the ‘Northern Rock Cyclone’ group on Facebook
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