Sir Bradley Wiggins launches new Prudential RideLondon event – entry-level 46-mile sportive for younger and less experienced riders

A new 46-mile route has been added to this year’s Prudential RideLondon event. Officially launched by Sir Bradley Wiggins during an event at the Lee Valley VeloPark, the new, shorter sportive will start at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in east London and finish on The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace.  

Taking place on Sunday July 31, riders taking part in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 46 will set off immediately after the last start wave of the 100 mile event. Organisers say that the ride has been created specifically for newer and younger cyclists, “to encourage them to enter their first mass participation cycling event and enjoy the freedom and camaraderie of Prudential RideLondon.”

The climbs of Leith Hill, Box Hill and Newlands Corner have been omitted and the route also avoids some of the narrower parts of the route through the Surrey Hills. Around 3,500 participants are expected and online application to enter the ballot for entry is now open. It will close at 5pm on Friday April 28. Entry is £39.00 with riders notified of ballot results before the end of May.

Organisers say that participants should aim to complete the entire ride within four hours. Those who get a place will be able to choose a specific start wave and opt to ride with friends, other first timers, in all female waves, with U18s or as individuals. For more information, see the Prudential RideLondon website.

Wiggins launched the event while meeting young riders from Greenhouse Sports and TeachFirst, two charities who will be supporting cyclists taking on the 46-mile ride. He also spoke to wounded and injured servicemen from the Invictus Games Foundation who will be taking on the 100-mile event.

“It’s a privilege to meet these riders,” he said. “Prudential RideLondon has truly inspired tens of thousands to get on a bike and ride. I hope that my career inspires this generation that anything is possible and to aim for the stars. I believe this festival of cycling is the most successful legacy of London 2012 and it’s amazing to see it grow and grow each year.”

Speaking about the 46-mile route, he said: “This is a fantastic event for new and young riders. 46 miles is still a challenge but it’s also a great introduction to cycling on traffic-free roads and it’s a wonderful way to ride your first sportive. And nothing beats riding up The Mall and crossing the line in front of Buckingham Palace. Get online and enter today.”