British Cycling wants Olympic success to get more people on bikes

Bob Howden, president of British Cycling, has said the organisation is determined to "build on the fantastic medal tally achieved at the Rio Olympic Games."

British cyclists won a total of 12 medals, and dominated in the velodrome, winning six of the ten track gold medals. This is the third consecutive Olympics at which Great Britain has topped the cycling medal table.

“The establishment and continuation of [British Cycling’s winning] system would not have been possible without the funding that we receive from UK Sport, Sport England and the National Lottery. We remain extremely grateful to these organisations, and to Sky, our principal partner for the last eight years, who have also contributed so much to the British Cycling story.”

Two thirds of the cycling squad which travelled to Rio were graduates of British Cycling’s industry-supported Go-Ride programme, which equips young riders with the skills and confidence needed to ride and race their bikes.

“The Go-Ride programme continues to prove incredibly successful," said Howden. "For children to be able to see a clear pathway to the top of the sport, and be able to admire Olympic champions who have followed that path, is inspirational, and gives us a great opportunity to encourage more young people to take up cycling, whether competitively or recreationally.”

Go-Ride is sponsored by the industry Bike Hub levy, and retailer Evans Cycles.

British Cycling is also positioning itself as a champion of everyday cyclists, said Howden.

The recently launched #ChooseCycling Charter calls upon local authorities to sign up to a three-point pledge which wouldhelp transform Britain into a true cycling nation.

Howden continued:

“We recently celebrated recruiting our 125,000th member, and we recognise and take seriously our responsibility to represent each and every one of those members, whether they race competitively, ride to keep fit, or commute to work or school on their bike.

“Cycling has once again captured the nation’s imagination over the past two weeks, and it is clear that there is a growing appetite to get more people on bikes, which will make Britain a healthier, fitter, cleaner and greener country. We will continue to campaign for stronger political leadership, smart investment and better infrastructure.”