Date: 01st May 2012

Time is running out to sign up for the fourth annual SEStran Megacycle.

Now entering its 4^th successful year, the Megacycle has become one of the most successful all-abilities cycling events in South East Scotland. Over 400- people took part in last year’s event and we are hoping to break our record once again in 2012. 

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.

“Last year’s event exceeded our expectations with more than 400 participants turning up. This year, we are hoping to top that by clearing the 500 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.  It’s great exercise – and it’s 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, and people should go at their own pace. It’s 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 before pushing on to the finish line”.

 

“Anyone who hasn’t signed up on the website is welcome to turn up on the day”.

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.

Notes

• Now in its fourth successful year, the "SEStran Megacycle" is a is a non-competitive all-abilities cycling event, that aims to promote cycling for health, fun and as a form of sustainable transportation, that can help tackle traffic congestion and reduce the regions carbon footprint.
• Over 400 participants rode the scenic 20 mile route from Penicuik to Musselburgh in 2011 and we aim to attract even greater numbers in 2012.
• Organizer, Quintin Young, swears the route is "almost all downhill" and easily achievable with the minimum of effort.
• The Megacycle's nominated charity for 2012 is once again the Sick Kids Friends Foundation but participants are welcome to raise money for the charity of their choice, or simply enjoy a fun day out.
• The SEStran Megacycle aims to :
• Encourage people to take up cycling for increased health and as a form of transport for shorter journeys.
• Promote cycling as a means of contributing towards reduced traffic congestion and CO2 emissions, as part of a sustainable transport strategy for SE Scotland.
• Increase awareness of the network of cycle paths available in Midlothian and East Lothian.
• Increase Midlothian and East Lothian's profile on the tourism map of SE Scotland.
• Benefit the Sick Kids charity.

 

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