FIRST Minister Nicola Sturgeon welcomed the “great opportunity” for Scotland on the global stage as she helped launched ticket sales for a major world championship event.
The outgoing SNP leader was joined by Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson and former BMX Racing UCI world champion Shanaze Reade at the Glasgow BMX Centre as the 2023 UCI Cycling Worlds tickets went on sale to the general public.
Scotland will welcome more than 2000 elite cyclists and para-cyclists from more than 100 countries in August, with this year’s event marking the first time 13 world championships come together in one place at one time to compete.
Sturgeon said: “Hosting the first-ever UCI Cycling World Championships is an excellent opportunity to showcase Scotland to the world, promote cycling and the many benefits it can bring.
“This global event will also deliver important economic benefits for communities throughout the country.
“While Glasgow is rightly recognised as an excellent and experienced host city, it’s fantastic to see these UCI World Championships taking place from Fort William to Dumfries and Galloway – and a variety of locations in between.
“This is a great opportunity for Scotland to build on our global reputation of hosting world-class events.
“Tickets going on general sale is one way for people to get involved. However, we want members of the public to not only enjoy watching the many different types of events on offer but be inspired by the power of the bike to give cycling a try for themselves – for exercise, sport, transport or even just for fun.”
The events include Track and Para-cycling Track at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome; BMX Racing at Glasgow BMX Centre; BMX Freestyle (Park and Flatland)
and Trials at Glasgow Green; Indoor Cycling (artistic cycling and cycle-ball) at the Emirates Arena; Mountain Bike Cross-Country and Marathon in Glentress Forest, Tweed Valley; Mountain Bike Downhill in Fort William; and Road and Para-cycling Road across Scotland.
Reade, who is the ambassador for children and young people at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, said: “For me, a bike represents freedom. It can open up so many possibilities and teach you so many vital life skills.
“With the UCI Cycling World Championships coming to Glasgow and Scotland this year, we’ve got an enormous opportunity to encourage young people into riding and feel part of this once-in-a-lifetime event.”
Tickets will be available from £8 and registration for free events is available online at www.cyclingworldchamps.com/visit/tickets/ – starting at 10am today.
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