British Cycling recruit their 40,000th member
Just days after Mark Cavendish claimed a world title for Britain in the Men’s Road Race in Copenhagen, British Cycling has signed up its 40,000th member, doubling its figures since 2007.
In April 2007, British Cycling membership was at 20,000 members rising to 30,000 by May 2010 and catapulting to 40,000 in just over a year.
Schemes such as Sky Ride, Breeze and Go-ride coupled with the success of British athletes at the Beijing 2008 Games have helped to drive this incredible cycling boom.
“Today really brings it home that our ‘inspiration to participation’ strategy is working as all types of cyclists are getting behind us on the final approach to London 2012,” said Brian Cookson OBE, President of British Cycling.
“Mark has already thanked his team but I'm sure he would agree that gold medals really come about as the culmination of the efforts from a huge team of people, from riders and support staff to the thousands of volunteers and clubs who work tirelessly to develop our sport.”
“As we celebrate this great British victory and record membership, our thanks go to Sport England whose National Governing Bodies investment strategy has been key to our success at grassroots level and to UK Sport and Sky for their continued support.”
“We are on track to get one million more people cycling regularly and increase weekly participation to 125,000 by 2013, and with the backing of our partners and members we are delivering a fantastic participation legacy of a home Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
To facilitate the growing demand for the sport, British Cycling continues to run a range of coaching qualifications and courses and supports young people in over 250 schools and clubs through its Go Ride initiative.
"On behalf of all the riders I’d like to say thank you to the members of British Cycling,” said four time Olympic Champion and British Cycling member, Sir Chris Hoy. “Your commitment to our sport makes a huge difference and means the organisation can continue to grow, offering more opportunities for more people to enjoy riding their bike. All members of British Cycling should take great pride in the role they’ve played, and continue to play, in helping ensure the sport is thriving at all levels."
British Cycling membership provides support and benefits to all types of cyclists. Members enjoy discounts from top cycle retailers, cycling publications and get legal support and insurance. Fees are invested straight back into the sport and used to develop cycling facilities, future talent and growing participation.
