The London-Surrey Cycle Classic road race, part of the ‘London Prepares’ series that will replicate the routes scheduled for the 2012 Olympic Games, has been set for Saturday 14 August, 2011.
It will replicate the route of the Olympic Road Race and will allow the organising committee (LOCOG) to test crucial aspects of its operations in readiness for next summer’s Games.
As one of only three UCI road events taking place in the UK in 2011, the race will showcase cycling to London and Surrey-based residents for free. It will feature riders from 20 national teams from every continent, with organisers hoping it’ll be as close as possible to the real thing.
The 140km race will start at The Mall in central London at 9am. After weaving their way through the capital to the historic Hampton Court Palace, the riders will head out into the rolling countryside, ancient woodland and picturesque villages of Surrey. They will ride two zigzag circuits around Box Hill before heading back into central London and a finish at The Mall.
LOCOG is working with Transport for London, Surrey County Council, relevant London Boroughs, highways authorities, Royal Parks and the emergency services to ensure that the race passes safely and with as little disruption as possible.
From today, Transport for London will be writing to all residents and businesses on the route in London informing them of timings for road closures, parking restrictions and the outline route to help them plan for the 14th of August. Surrey County Council will be undertaking similar activity with residents in Surrey.
Seb Coe, Chair of LOCOG, said: "The route extends the Games into the South West of London and Surrey. We are delighted to be bringing such high profile and exciting sporting events here in 2011 and 2012 particularly as road cycling is so popular. We are very appreciative of the support from south west London Boroughs and our message to local residents is plan and prepare for the 14th August this year. Some roads across south west London will be closed for much of the day and we want to give residents and businesses as much notice as possible to plan their day."
For more information, visit www.londonprepares.com/roadcycling.
