Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic set to return to Oakham for first time since 2019 and bring £250,000 boost for local economy

The local economy is set for a springtime boost next year with the return of the Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic for the first time since 2019.

The popular international race, scheduled for Sunday, April 24, is a boon for the tourism and hospitality industry, bringing cycling teams and riders to the region from all over the world as well as fans from across the UK.

It was founded in 2005 by race director Colin Clews, from Wymondham, but the global pandemic forced its cancellation in 2020 and 2021.

Colin believes each race brings in around £250,000 for local businesses

“We’re really pleased that the race is able to move forward once more in so many respects,” he said.

“Certainly the race should, as always, offer a strong boost to the local economy during race weekend.”

The 16th edition of the race, which starts in Oakham, will take place over a shorter course, but along most of the same rugged tracks, country lanes and villages, including seven laps of Owston.

A new sprint award has been added for the first rider to cross the Rutland boundary at Teigh on the return from Wymondham to Oakham before the race heads back to its finish in Melton.

Organisers are looking for local volunteers to help run the race as preparations ramp up.

The men’s race has featured huge cycling names, including former world champions Peter Sagan and Mark Cavendish, and three-time Olympic gold medallist Ed Clancy.

Cycling returned to the region in June this year when the Classic’s women’s and junior versions were staged.