A CYCLING legend has congratulated Scotland for its hosting of the UCI Cycling World Championships.
Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman posted a video of himself cycling along the Clyde on Twitter and shared his experience of working in Glasgow for a week.
He tweeted: “I’ve had such fun this last week riding around Glasgow for work.
“Free bikes, easy parking and space to ride them. Well done Scotland!”
In celebration of the city hosting one of the cycling world’s biggest events, OVO Bikes has been giving riders the first 20 minutes of its bike hire completely free.
The offer runs until the championships end on August 13.
I’ve had such fun this last week riding around Glasgow for work. Free bikes, easy parking and space to ride them. Well done Scotland! 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/LdJqGFOyp0
— Chris Boardman (@Chris_Boardman) August 8, 2023
It comes as Culture Secretary Angus Robertson claims that Scotland can secure long-term health, environmental and tourism benefits off the back of hosting the competition.
Speaking at a reception in Glasgow hosted by UK Sport and attended by UCI president David Lappartient, he said: “Hosting the UCI Cycling World Championships will not only support Scotland’s desire to become one of Europe’s top cycling nations – it will also encourage more people out of their cars and onto the growing network of cycle routes to explore our towns, cities and countryside.
“From improving physical and mental health, to making Scotland a leading destination for cycling tourism, and to supporting our net zero targets, the Scottish Government is determined that these Championships leave a lasting legacy.
“That is one of the reasons why we are providing significant funding, with almost £36 million committed. I hope we can deliver long-term benefits by inspiring people in Scotland and further afield to make cycling an activity for life.
“We want to see as many people as possible cycling as part of their everyday journeys and for leisure, with all the benefits that would bring, including at the sporting level.
“Some £9 million of funding has been allocated through projects inspired by the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships to support people across the country to cycle, regardless of age or fitness. I hope these Championships inspire the next Chris Hoy, Katie Archibald or Fin Graham.”
