You may have noticed that everything around us is going pink, from cows to shop fronts and even Belfast City Hall. As we started to explain in our first ever PastieCast, the world’s second largest cycling race, the Giro D’Italia is quickly freewheeling towards us. So here’s a quick guide to everything you’ll need to know come the 9th May…
What:
The historic Giro D’Italia is basically a big old bike race. It’s a long distance, multi-stage race for professional cyclists held over three weeks in May and June every year. Its home country is Italy (where most of the race is held), of course, but every other year the first stages of the race are held in another country.
Why:
Following a successful bid, Northern Ireland was chosen for this year’s ‘Big Start’ or ‘Grand Partenza’ – the first 3 stages of the race. According to Discover Northern Ireland the organisers chose Northern Ireland for 2014 because of our magical landscapes, quality roads that are ideal for the race, the iconic architecture of our cities and the warmth and enthusiasm of our people.
When:
The first three stages will take place in Northern Ireland from the 9th – 11th May.
Where:
Everything kicks off at Titanic Belfast on the 9th May. Practice sessions begin at 10am and team time trials begin at 5.45pm. For more information about Day 1 of the race have a look here. Also, if you’re a tourist, or don’t know the area well, there’s a map of Belfast to help make sure you find where you need to go, here.
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