Scottish cycling legend Graeme Obree has signed up to ride the Tour of Ayshire Gran Fondo on Sunday 30th April. As a qualifier for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, the closed roads event is open to both racers and sportive riders - with Graeme confirming he will definitely be with the sportive riders.
Obree twice broke cycling's world hour record in the 1990s, earning him the nickname "The Flying Scotsman". But he no longer feels the need to target UCI events; he will be leaving that to the age group riders looking to qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships final in Albi, France, in August.
However, Obree expressed his delight that such a prestigious and inclusive event will be staged in his home town of Kilmarnock. Acknowledging that riding on his home turf on fully closed roads will be a real treat, Graeme encouraged anyone with a love for cycling to support the event and join him on the ride.
"I think it is really great that Golazo have chosen to bring this event to the cyclists of Scotland, and look forward to this being a real jewel in the crown of both elite amateur and mass participation cycling over the years to come" said Obree.
"I love riding around the countryside of Ayrshire, and it's brilliant to see a great event like The Tour of Ayrshire with fully closed roads being staged here.
"I have already been involved speaking with a few of the local schools and the enthusiasm for the event is amazing. I am looking forward to seeing lots of the pupils, who promised to come out to cheer the riders, when I ride the Gran Fondo on 30th April."
Obree is also the ambassador for the Tour of Ayrshire Endura Chrono time trial, and will be the guest of honour awarding the winners jerseys and medals for the Endura Chrono events.
His record-breaking home-made bike, Old Faithful, may now be a museum exhibit, but we're sure Graeme could still put in a decent effort if he's in the mood... why not join him on the day and find out?
To book your place on the Tour of Ayrshire and have a chance of qualifying for the amateur World Championships, visit www.tourofayrshire.com.
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