Cycling Ulster is aware of the disappointment and some concern among our members, clubs and the wider cycling community due to the cancellation of recent events including the province’s two major stage races, the Tour of the North and Tour of Ulster.
Covid-19 had a major impact on all aspects of life, including our sport and while we have seen the return of many events this year, cycling continues to feel the effects of the pandemic.
Following the decision by the PSNI to no longer provide cover for our major races, Cycling Ulster in collaboration with Cycling Ireland, the Department for Infrastructure and the PSNI have worked diligently over the winter months to create the Accredited Marshal Scheme and sought to ensure the necessary legislative changes required to give marshals powers which will help improve the safety of our events and sustain them in the longer term took place.
The scheme has received an encouraging uptake so far this year however we wish to clarify that this has not been the reason for the cancellation of events in the province. Promoters have been faced by other challenges, the predominant reason being low entries which has meant races have not been financially viable.
Cycling Ulster want to reassure our members that we will support race organisers and clubs where they require assistance. Cycling Ulster will also continue to work with Cycling Ireland to address concerns about entries to events.
Cycling Ulster Executive
