The Ford RideLondon Classique came to Hertfordshire for the first time, bringing professional cycling and all the razzmatazz of a world-class sporting event.
Stage One of the UCI Women’s World Tour event started in Saffron Walden before coming into the county at Barley, then through Barkway and Buckland before heading into Buntingford.
Riders then made their way onto Pelham Gate before turning back into Essex on Friday, May 24.
The 99-mile (159 km) stage was won by Lorena Wiebes from the Netherlands, who also won the three-day race overall.
Children from Edwinstree School lent their support to the stage by entering a competition to guess the speed of the race as it passed by Market Hill in Buntingford.
Annie Brewster, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, was in charge of the speed gun and measured it at 30.3 miles per hour.
Bishop’s Stortford Cllr Graham McAndrew, deputy executive member for the environment, said: “It’s been a pleasure to have brought the Ford RideLondon Classique to Hertfordshire for the first time.
“My thanks go to all the residents and especially the school children who came out to support the riders and make it such a special event. We look forward to hosting a larger stage event in 2025.”
His Conservative colleague, Cllr Phil Bibby, executive member for highways and transport, said: “It was wonderful to host the Ford RideLondon Classique and see world-class cyclists enjoying Hertfordshire’s roads and countryside, with the weather also staying kind to us.
“There are many different routes to cycle, walk and wheel, all of which provide an alternative way to be out and about, whether for leisure, shopping or commuting. It helps improve your health and wellbeing, as well as supporting better air quality and reducing traffic congestion.”
Scott Sunderland, race director of the Ford RideLondon Classique, said: “We’re very happy with how the event has rolled out. I’ve talked with all the different counties, stakeholders and sponsors, and everybody involved is super happy with how things have gone, exceeding expectations in some cases, which is always nice to hear.
“That is true for the teams and riders. They have had a great three days, heading into Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire for the first time. These tweaks made the race even better.”