Date: 03rd February 2011

 If you still feel guilty looking in the mirror after that Christmas blow-out, don’t go on a diet, or pay for an expensive gym membership - get on your bike and start training for the SEStran Megacycle!

Now entering its 3^rd successful year, the Megacycle has been adopted by SEStran as part of its campaign to promote cycling for health and as a form of transportation for shorter journeys.

The ride follows a 20 mile route along mostly traffic free roads, tracing the former railtrack from Penicuik to Dalkeith, then following the River Esk to the Forth, finishing at the new Stable Pavilion adjacent to Musselburgh Racecourse.

All participants who complete the course will receive a t-shirt, medal and goody bag.

SEStran Chair Russell Imrie said:

“SEStran adopted the Megacycle because it is so inclusive and targets people of all ages and abilities. It’s pitched at a level where everyone can give it a try. You don’t need to be a super athlete or own an expensive bicycle. Just come along on the day and go at your own pace”.

“Last year’s event exceeded our expectations with more than 300 participants turning up. This year, we are hoping to top that by clearing the 400 mark”. 

“If more people take up cycling, it will help tackle congestion on the region’s roads. It will also contribute towards reducing our carbon footprint. All-ability events like this are an important way of getting people involved. If we want to keep the region moving, the more people who take up cycling as a form of transport for shorter journeys the better.  Its great exercise – and its fun”.

Event Organiser, Quintin Young, who founded the original Megacycle added :

“The route has been chosen to be easily achievable by all abilities. It’s a fun day out, not a race or a trial of endurance. Midway, at Dalkeith Palace grounds, spectators and riders will be invited to picnic and replenish their energies and musical entertainment will be provided at the Finish”. 

“Transport for bikes and riders will also be available from the car park at the finish line,  both before and after the event”.  

Iain Reid, East Lothian Council Cycling Officer said :   

“ This fantastic event promises to  be bigger and better  this  year with great scenery to be enjoyed with friends and family at a leisurely cycling pace on some of Mid & East Lothian’s best but relatively unknown cycle paths. With the added bonus of refreshments en-route what better way to get out and get active this Spring.  A must do for all the family in 2011”.

For further information, please visit the SEStran Megacycle website at www.sestran-megacycle.co.uk  or contact:

Andrew Dougal, SEStran Communications Officer

T: 0131-524-5161

M: 07889-010-291

E: Andrew.dougal@sestran.gov.uk

ENDS SEStran - South East of Scotland Transport Partnership - is one of seven new Statutory Regional Transport Partnerships (RTP) created by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005 and is a partnership of eight local councils covering the Borders, East Lothian, Midlothian and West Lothian, Edinburgh, Fife, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire.

 

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