Thousands turn out for OVO Energy Tour Series cycling spectacular in Aberdeen
16 May 2019
Thousands turn out for OVO Energy Tour Series cycling spectacular in Aberdeen
Crowds were out in force as Aberdeen city centre was transformed into an action-packed cycling arena for the visit of the OVO Energy Tour Series.
An estimated 10,000 spectators lent their support to riders throughout the day – with junior, amateur and corporate races building up to the sport’s elite taking centre stage in the women’s and men’s races.
Professional teams from across Britain went head to head on the 1.3km course, following a loop from the home straight on Broad Street through Upperkirkgate, Schoolhill, Back Wynd, Little Belmont Street, Belmont Street and onto Union Street.
Councillor Marie Boulton, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesperson, said: “Once again the Tour Series has brought the city centre to life – it has been a fantastic day. On behalf of the Council I thank everyone who turned out to cheer on the riders and to create such a brilliant atmosphere, from the very first race with our budding local riders right through to the professionals crossing the line in the finale. The activity programme, which ran from noon, created a great buzz and with the sun shining there was a fantastic vibe all around the course.
“The refreshed route for 2019 provided an impressive backdrop, with the history and heritage of Marischal College on one side and the contemporary Marischal Square on the other, and the international broadcast coverage of the event will showcase the city centre.
“The Tour Series attracts spectators from near and far as well as raising the profile of Aberdeen as part of our wider Aberdeen 365 events strategy and City Centre Masterplan. Our role as a destination is growing and evolving at a rapid rate and the Council continues to invest to build on the good work that has been done.”
Mick Bennett, Race Director of the OVO Energy Tour Series organising company SweetSpot, said: “Once again the city of Aberdeen, its residents and local businesses have helped us deliver a truly unforgettable round of the OVO Energy Tour Series. As if our old circuit wasn’t majestic enough, the series’ new surroundings adjacent to Marishcal College created the most stunning backdrop for any sporting event in the whole of Britain.
“I’d like to thank Aberdeen City Council, Event Scotland and Scottish Cycling for their continued support of the OVO Energy Tour Series, without whom none of this would have been possible.”
Today’s event was the third leg of this year’s OVO Energy Tour Series. For full results and series standings visit https://www.tourseries.co.uk/ .