THE BIRMINGHAM 2022 Commonwealth Games cycling road race will be held in Warwick.
St Nicholas Park will host the start and finish of the event, which will see around 160 cyclists from across the commonwealth take part in two road race events with spectators lining the route.
The historic park is in Warwick town centre set in 64 acres with views of Warwick Castle. Organisers say it will provide a ‘picturesque backdrop’ for the race.
The district is already set to host the bowls and para bowls at Victoria Park in Leamington.
And Warwick District Council leader Andrew Day welcomed the Games and the boost it would bring to the economy.
He said: “Warwick has witnessed some amazing moments in history, and we’re determined that when the world comes calling for the Games in 2022, our visitors will leave with happy memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime. Hosting the road cycling races start and finish in this iconic setting will give our visitors and TV audiences a spectacular experience.
“Local volunteers look forward to supporting thousands of anticipated spectators from across the Commonwealth, giving a major boost to local tourism. This welcome news brings the promise of better times ahead, protecting jobs and encouraging investment in our key hospitality businesses, leaving a Games legacy that will benefit our local economy for decades to come.”
Birmingham 2022 chairman John Crabtree said: “Birmingham 2022 is a regional Games with Birmingham at its heart, and holding our cycling competitions in Warwickshire increases our regional reach and will allow thousands of spectators to experience live sport right on their doorsteps.
“St Nicholas Park is a scenic location and will guarantee a fantastic experience for spectators and cyclists alike, with TV viewers from across the globe also being treated to a showcase of the rich and varied landscape the West Midlands has to offer.”
And Warwickshire County Council leader Izzi Seccombe added the county is a world-class location for cyclists.
She told the Observer: “The county has a rich history in hosting high-level cycling events, having played host to legs of both the men’s and women’s Tour of Britain over the last few years, and the Commonwealth Games road race will be the crowning jewel demonstrating that Warwickshire is a world-class location for cycling and cyclists.”
The games will take place from July 28 to August 8 2022. While the final schedule has not been published it has been confirmed the race will take place a Sunday.
The route for the race has not yet been finalised.
