Get on your bike to Paris

The Royal British Legion is calling for riders to sign-up for September’s Pedal to Paris ride and raise money for a great cause.

With all of the exciting action from the Tour de France coming to an end now is a great time to get into cycling and sign-up for a real challenge that will take you all the way to the cobbled streets of the French capital.

Pedal to Paris, which runs from Thursday, September 3-Monday, September 7, has three speed groups and caters for riders of all abilities. For people who’ve just had their first taste of cycling or who have recently returned to the sport, Pedal to Paris is a great goal to work towards over the summer.

The Royal British Legion event is now in its 14th year and has a well-established reputation as the best organised of any of the charity rides between the two capitals.

The 2009 ride will feature the same standards of service and logistical support including full rolling road closures, comprehensive technical support and sports therapist services.

The £500 entry fee includes all accommodation, meals, snacks at pit stops, souvenir kit and medal, outbound ferry crossing and Eurostar return, as well as the return of all participants’ bikes from Paris to London.

The Pedal to Paris ride is also the only charity ride in which cyclists arrive at the Arc de Triomphe under full police escort, which for many is the highlight of the event.

Dan Solley, Events Manager at The Royal British Legion, said: “The ride has gone from strength to strength over the last 13 years and I’m sure that 2009 will be no exception.

“Events like Bike Week give the profile of cycling a great boost and Pedal to Paris gives cyclists of all abilities the opportunity to take part in a fantastic event, and raise money for an important charity.”

To sign-up visit www.poppybike.org to download an entry form and request a brochure, or contact Dan Solley at dsolley [at] britishlegion.org.uk or on 020 3207 2270 for more information.