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Students’ Union uphill struggle to crown winner of first Woodlane bike race

In the words of multiple Tour de France champion, Lance Armstrong: “If you worried about falling off the bike, you'd never get on.”

It is in this great spirit of determination that the Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union, FXU, in partnership with University College Falmouth (UCF), present the fun spectacle that will be the first ever Woodlane Uphill Bike Race.

“On Saturday 2 June at 12 noon we want to see who can make their way up UCF’s famous Woodlane Campus hill the fastest,” explains organiser, Rich Pearson, who is FXU’s Welfare President and himself, an accomplished stunt cyclist.  “Riders will have one attempt each at cycling as fast as they can up the 200 metre central hill of the Woodlane Campus against the clock.  Whether you’re a five-year-old with training wheels or a seasoned professional, this event is open to all, and we wholeheartedly encourage entrants to don their finest fancy dress should they be so inclined.”

The fastest twenty men and women (or boys and girls) on the day will be entered into a final heat to determine who will be crowned the first ever Woodlane Uphill Bike Race champion.

Prizes from local businesses, including St Michael’s Hotel and Inspired Cycle Engineering, will be awarded to the champion, the second fastest, the third fastest, the fastest under 16 and the participant with the best fancy dress costume.

“Whether you want to take this competition seriously or just have a go and have fun, we hope that this will provide a great opportunity for students and other local people to join together at the start of the Diamond Jubilee weekend,” adds Richard.

If you don’t have your own bike and wish to take part, FXU have a number that people can borrow.  Please e-mail rich.pearson@falmouth.ac.uk for more information.

Registration to enter the race will take place from 11.30am on the day.  Entry for each competitor is £1, with all proceeds going towards covering event costs.  The event will run from 12 noon until 5pm or when all riders have made their attempt, however the organisers reserve the right to respectfully refuse entry should numbers of entrants exceed health, safety and time constraints, so if you do want to ride, you are advised to arrive early. 

Helmets will be compulsory but will be available to borrow at the event.

Refreshments will also be available as well as First Aid assistance and basic bike maintenance tips.

“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike.” ~ John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States of America.