Rhayader reinforced its reputation as the Outdoors Capital of Wales when the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women raced through the town and the spectacular Elan Valley at the weekend.
The race formed the centrepiece of a weekend that celebrated cycling in all its forms.
Rhayader’s streets were lined with residents, visitors and cycling fans, as some of the world’s leading female riders passed through the town twice, heading out into the Elan Valley before returning as the race continued across Mid Wales.
Alongside the Tour of Britain, Pump Track Wales hosted a Welsh cycling event at the town’s pump track, while Rhayader Riders organised a ride into the Elan Valley, creating a day where cycling could be seen at every level.
It was a fitting showcase for a town increasingly positioning itself as one of Wales’ leading destinations for two wheels.
Rhayader is home to the largest split pump track in Europe, while just outside the town the Elan Valley offers an extensive network of cycling opportunities, including fantastic single track riding through spectacular scenery.
Cllr Rhys Thomas, Rhayader Tourism Forum chair, said: “What was particularly special was that the Tour of Britain wasn’t happening in isolation. We had a Welsh Cycling event taking place at Pump Track Wales and Rhayader Riders heading out for a ride into the Elan Valley.
“It really demonstrated what we mean when we call Rhayader the Outdoors Capital of Wales. This is a place for two wheels, whether you are an international professional, a mountain biker, a road cyclist or a youngster getting started on the pump track.
“We have the biggest split pump track in Europe, brilliant single tracks in the Elan Valley, incredible road cycling and accommodation and eateries that are geared up to welcome cyclists. The tour gave us an opportunity to showcase all of that to a much wider audience.”
Rhayader Tourism Forum is already looking ahead to another huge opportunity for Mid Wales – the Tour de France Grand Départ on July 4 next year.
Rhayader’s central location provides an opportunity for cycling supporters to stay in the area while travelling to watch the different stages.
“We are now gearing up for the Tour Grand Départ because we have a perfect location here in the Outdoors Capital of Wales,” added Cllr Thomas. “We won’t have the road closures associated with the race itself, but we are an easy hop to all of the stages.
“That gives visitors the chance to stay somewhere surrounded by world-class cycling and outdoor experiences while being ideally placed to follow the tour.
“We look forward to welcoming people not only for that weekend, but hopefully the teams themselves as they train and prepare in the build-up to the event. With the roads, climbs, facilities and landscapes we have on our doorstep, the Elan Valley and Rhayader would make a fantastic training base.”
