Dudley Grand Prix cycling event returns for second year

An elite-level British Cycling event returns to Dudley on Friday evening with the hope it will inspire more people to take up the sport.

The race is a “brilliant” legacy of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, said Amy Gardner from British Cycling.

“It’s created this buzz around the West Midlands… let’s get more events, let’s get more bike races, let’s get more people cycling in the community” she said.

The event, staged in the town centre, allows amateurs and youngsters to take part in races, ahead of the professional cyclists.

Dudley Grand Prix is part of the men’s and women’s national circuit series.

“It’s an opportunity for some of the best riders across the country to race and compete on a national stage,” said Ms Gardner.

Before the competitive racing, the event begins at 16:00 BST with a community ride.

“The roads are closed, it’s traffic-free, it’s a great opportunity for friends and family to get together and have a go,” she said.

The grand prix was putting Dudley on the map, and encouraging community pride, added British Cycling’s sport and participation director.

“We want to create that really exciting fan experience, we want people to be lining the streets, enjoying having an event in their local area,” Ms Gardner said.