Behave responsibly advises British Cycling
British Cycling has instructed all cycling clubs to behave responsibly and cancel coordinated events in line with the Government’s social distance initiatives to avoid coronavirus spread.
The Royal Parks of London were shut down to the motorists on the weekend after the public marched into the green areas after the government ordered the pubs to be locked down on Friday. We went on to warn the bikers to stop riding in groups or the parks would have to be closed down entirely.
The governing body has given further advice on how individuals can continue safely riding, asking cyclists to only use routes they know well, which are close to their home, adding that this is a “time for calm recreation, not for challenging yourself”.
British Cycling echoed this suggestion, saying that people would only be allowed to ride if they “fail to act responsibly.”
They also announced that the suspension of cycling activities would be extended until 30 June and that they would seek to redeploy dates for postponed activities when the prospect of holding sporting events returns.
In their statement, British Cycling said: “Given the ongoing uncertainty around the Coronavirus outbreak, and the developing Government advice and guidance, British Cycling has taken the decision to extend its current suspension on sanctioned cycling activities to June 30.
“With all Government guidance pointing towards a period during which the nation is being urged to come together to fight the spread of the virus, and the unprecedented burden currently on our emergency and public services, we felt that this is the most responsible – and only – course of action we could take at this moment.
“We are acutely aware of the impact that this situation has had on individuals, communities and businesses within cycling and beyond. We’d like to take this opportunity to reinforce that, while we share in the disappointment of those affected by this extended suspension, we will do absolutely everything within our power to ensure that cycling can return with strength and as soon as possible.
“This suspension period will include the dates originally set for several traditional milestones of the competitive cycling calendar. As with the vast majority of sports – while our primary focus will always be health and wellbeing – we will be exploring all options regarding the fulfilment of the racing calendar once sporting events can recommence.
Source: British Cycling
