Subscribe to L2P News London, UK. 30 September 2009
The London-Paris 2010 (L2P) will run from Thursday, June 24th to Sunday, June 27th.
HotChillee, the global marketing and events company which stages the pro-am style cycle ride, has announced the 2010 dates as early as possible because of unprecedented interest in next year’s event.
Director, Sven Thiele said: “The 2010 L2P comes just a week before the Tour de France starts in Rotterdam and cyclists across the world like the idea of participating in a Tour-style experience just before the start of cycling’s biggest event.
“Interest in our 2010 ride started almost as soon as we’d crossed the finish line in Paris in June and traffic on our website has been enormous.
“Cycling is big news and with the Team Sky and RadioShack squads competing in the Tour de France next year, interest in the sport is at an all-time high.”
The London-Paris is recognised as THE professional event for amateur riders. The ride covers around 550km in three days, with a rest day in Paris. Cyclists enjoy full logistical support, with rolling road closures and motorbike outriders. It is the closest the amateur rider can get to the Tour de France experience and The L2P is now the blue riband event of cyclosportives.
The event also attracts ex-cycling pros and leading sports stars. The 2009 line up included Tour de France winner, Stephen Roche, double Olympic champion, James Cracknell, Team Sky sports manager, Scott Sunderland and footballers, Geoff Thomas and John Salako.
Thiele said: “Cyclists on The L2P enjoy the combination of professionalism and camaraderie. We’ve already had enquiries from some big names in sport and show business and we’re expecting to announce a star-studded line-up for 2010.”
Tour de France and Giro d'Italia winner and former world champion, Stephen Roche said: "The London-Paris is one of the best experiences a cyclist can have. The ride has all the professionalism of a pro-event like the Tour de France and is a real test of physical and mental endurance. But it's also an event with legendary camaraderie and that's why I love it. The L2P is all about serious cyclists having fun out on the road. If you love cycling, The L2P is the event to do."
What the star riders say about London-Paris:
Double Olympic champion, James Cracknell: "Riding London-Paris was a fantastic experience. Riding with top class riders such as Stephen Roche was as close as I'll ever get to feeling like a professional cyclist. The camaraderie was terrific.”
British Cycling/Team Sky sports manager, Scott Sunderland: “There is a real buzz around the event with people making friends and respecting each other. The L2P offers a unique experience that very few events can offer.”
Former England and Crystal Palace footballer, Geoff Thomas: “It was a proud and emotional moment for me as we rode into Paris together.”
Sky Sports football pundit, John Salako: “I was a professional footballer for 20 years and this was by far the hardest thing I've ever done and probably the most rewarding as well. I absolutely loved it.”
Hell’s kitchen contestant, Grant Bovey: “The L2P was exhilarating and riding into Paris with 300 riders was awesome. I believe that life is all about memories and this was a very special one.”
Russ Lindsay, showbiz agent: “This was an amazing experience. It was great to have three days of not answering phones and making friendships with other riders. It was an extraordinary time.”