Published 17 May 2023
The 2023 UCI Cycling World Championship are coming to West Dunbartonshire – and residents are being encouraged to get involved.
Two races – the Women’s Elite Road Race and the Men’s Under 23 Road Race – will start in Balloch making the area a key location for the inaugural championships.
Competitors will gather at the start line on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 August, with races kicking off at 12pm.
Both events will see cyclists travel through the village on a route which takes them through Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park towards Gartocharn.
It means some of the world’s best cyclists – and fans from around the globe watching television coverage – will get to experience the area’s most spectacular scenery.
For the first time, the Women’s Elite Road Race, which also includes those in the Under 23 category, will be the final event, and will close the Championships.
The event is the single biggest cycling event in history, bringing together 13 existing UCI World Championship disciplines into one mega event.
Most of the event – including races beginning in Balloch – is free to attend for spectators, giving locals the opportunity to be involved and enjoy watching world class athletes compete in the first-of-its-kind championships.
Councillor Martin Rooney, leader of West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “Balloch and Loch Lomond will provide a stirring backdrop that will resonate with television viewers across the globe, putting our area on a world stage.
“West Dunbartonshire promises a warm welcome for the competitors and spectators and I would encourage locals and visitors to gather in Balloch for the start of the Women’s Elite Road Race or the Men’s Under-23 race.
“We are extremely proud to play our part in this global sporting event that will once again reinforce our area’s reputation as a world-class tourist and event destination.
“We recognise the health and environmental benefits of active travel and hope that the lasting legacy of having elite cyclists riding through our community will inspire residents to get on their bikes too.”
For more information about the event, please visit: 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships | Glasgow and across Scotland (cyclingworldchamps.com)