IT’S all action in the Guildhall Square this weekend as the NW Big Bike Fest gets underway, featuring a giant televised velodrome and some of the best stunt cycling in the country.
Organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Tourism NI and Sustrans, the event is just one of the highlights of the exciting line up of bike orientated activity taking place as part of NI Bike Week,
Following on from the success of the Maiden City Criterium on Tuesday night, there will be more serious pedal power on display at the Bike Try Out Roadshow over the weekend, followed on Sunday by a high speed street velodrome.
On Saturday in the Guildhall Square there will be the opportunity to join in the fun at the Bike Try Out Roadshow, with Mega Bikes, KMX Karts, Bike Simulators and even a Bike Powered Smoothie Maker! Other activities include a Bike Powered Scalextric and why not try your hand at creating some Bike Art?
On Sunday in the Guildhall Square there will be the addition of a high speed street velodrome, with some heart pounding, action packed theatre of track style cycling.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Alderman Hilary McClintock, encouraged people to support the event this weekend.
“The NW Big Bike Festival is a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy some great entertainment and maybe try out some of the biking activities for themselves.
“I hope it gets people more active and out and about enjoying the many great greenways and scenic routes across the district.”
Tourism Officer with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Mary Blake, said the festival provided a great opportunity for people to enjoy the local countryside.
“I am delighted that Tourism NI have agreed to support the NW Big Bike Festival, which offers a great platform for people to enjoy the fun and high adrenalin events on offer this weekend.
“I hope to see people out supporting the many exciting events. The programme will feature everything from aerial stunt displays to street velodrome as well more leisurely cycling opportunities.”
Sustrans Area Manager Ross McGill said: “We’ve tried to keep the programme as diverse as possible, with plenty of action, breath taking displays and opportunities for people to try out some of the latest innovations in cycling.
“With high speed races, traffic-free family rides and pedalling picnics we hope there will be something for everybody.”
For more leisurely bike lovers Saturday will feature the Wild Foodie Cycle exploring the beauty of the Sperrins taking in the rural villages of Eglinton and Park Village and sampling some of the best locally sourced cuisine.
“And for early risers the Dawn Cycle will leave St Columb’s Park House at 7.30am for a tranquil four mile trip along the local riverside greenway paths.
Throughout June Schools and local businesses will be encouraging pupils and commuters to ditch the car and cycle to work with free breakfasts for those participating.
And with 2016 being Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink, there will also be special discounts for customers arriving by bike at participating restaurants and cafés in Derry and Strabane as an added incentive!
The Festival finally closes on June 18th in Strabane with a full day of high flying two-wheeled aerobatics with the 360 Stunt Team.
As well as these events there will also be a number of opportunities for local schools to get involved, with free breakfasts for pupils participating in Bike to School days across the district, and exciting cycling demonstrations.
These are just some highlights from the Festival programme and more details about how you can get involved are now available at www.derrystrabane.com/bigbikefest
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