British cycling anniversary

Governing body limbers up for party in the Spring

According to Britain’s Mountain Bike Rider Magazine, British Cycling - the National Governing Body for Cycling in Britain - will be putting on a number of events in honour of the sport’s 50th anniversary. The festivities will include the creation of a Hall of Fame, which will induct 50 individuals from various areas of the sport including riders, coaches, organizers, and volunteers, as well as a 50th anniversary gala and awards dinner in February 2010 that will bring together major mountain biking figures from around the country to celebrate their commitment to the sport throughout the past half-century.

British Cycling, formerly known as the British Cycling Federation, was created in 1959 as the merged product of the National Cyclists Union and the British League of Racing Cyclists, incorporating a number of different racing styles and officially recognizing open-road racing. Since then, Britain’s cycling reputation has steadily improved within the world standing, culminating in their 4th place finish at the 2008 Beijing Olympics—the highest in GB history since 1912. It has recently been reported that the GB team will set its sights on 3rd place in the upcoming 2012 Olympics—which will be hosted at home in London.  

Several top officials of British Cycling have indicated that gratitude will set the tone of the anniversary celebrations—making note of the commitment and contributions of members, organizers, and supporters of the sport. Brian Cookson, president of British Cycling, noted that the event will also focus on the organization’s roots, saying “We would not be where we are today without the forward looking individuals at the British League of Racing Cyclists and the National Cyclists Union who laid solid foundations for our organisation, so we will also be remembering them this year.”

For more on British Cycling, their 50th anniversary, or the GB cycling team, visit www.britishcycling.org.uk