Preview: Anthony Maynard Sportive

Cycling Twice Around the World for Anthony

Sunday 19th July at eight in the morning, Theale Berkshire will see a field of over 400 cyclists starting the inaugural Anthony Maynard Sportive. Individually they will be setting off to cover a challenging circuit of either 190km or 105km through the beautiful scenery of the Berkshire Downs. Collectively, they will cover a distance equivalent to cycling twice around the world!

Above: The rolling Berkshire Downs, the scene of the Anthony Maynard Sportive

With a fully signposted route, electronic timing, mechanical support and feed stations stocked with organic fair trade and vegan food, riders will be taking part in a cyclo-sport discipline that was one of Anthony's greatest loves. Even the award winning Porridge Lady and her team will be on hand before the start to help riders prepare for what will be several hours of challenging, yet satisfying cycling.

Organised by a team of volunteers from Reading Cycling Club with the help of Anthony's friends and family, the Anthony Maynard Sportive is being held to honour Reading CC's Anthony Maynard who, aged 25, tragically lost his life in July 2008 when struck by a vehicle whilst cycling in an evening club ride.

The event is being run on a not for profit basis with all proceeds to be distributed to charities that reflect Anthony's interests

Event sponsorship includes mechanical support from CycleZone, organic nutrition from Meridian Foods, Rocks Cordials and True Food Co-op, hydration from The Instant Water Company, sports massage services from Vanessa Munday along with print & design from Conservatree and rider draw prizes from Green Bike Pyrenees and others.

Further details can be found at www.anthonymaynardsportive.org.