The series, which is open to non-members, comprises four road events over spring and summer and is the main difference between the 2025 summer calendar and that of previous years.
No previous race experience is required and, in fact, organisers are trying to encourage newcomers to give it a go.
‘This is just trying to prove that the sport is actually welcoming – and it’s fun,’ Velo Club stalwart Mark Smith said.
‘It does away with the perception that you have to be fast and have an expensive bike.’
After two road races this month, the second taking place on 26 May, there will be a circuit race on 19 June and time-trial on 31 August.
Riders will be split into three categories. Racing is the most serious and competitive, Sport is fitness enthusiasts who have some experience riding bikes but are unfamiliar with racing, and Challenge caters to newcomers or those who just want to enjoy the social aspect.
‘If you just want to ride around and complete the race, you can ride around and complete the race,’ Smith said.
‘It’s just about turning up to a real event with no expectation you’ve got to perform.’
Sunday’s opening road race takes place on the Perelle Circuit from 7am.
The Velo Club is also hosting a newly renamed Gary Wallbridge 57th Anniversary Five-Mile Time-Trial on Monday.
They have renamed this event after their current president in recognition of the fact that his first race with the club was a five-mile time-trial on 5 May 1968.
Action will take place on the Vazon course from 7am.
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