Oxford,
13
June
2019
|
16:22
Europe/London

OVO Energy Women’s Tour 2019. Flying the flag for Oxfordshire

The OVO Energy Women’s Tour pro cyclists received a warm welcome from thousands of Oxfordshire residents and school children on Wednesday 12 June.

Henley’s Market Square was packed with a lively crowd for the start. Many people arrived early, knowing a hearty Big Bike Breakfast was available from cafes and coffee shops.

Family butchers Gabriel Machin marked the historic day by offering a ‘full English’.

Alexa Lee, aged 10, from Appleton Church of England Primary School (Abingdon), started the race, waving her very own flag! She won this year’s design competition. The young artist’s design features a cloaked cyclist against a multi-coloured background.

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Flag design winner Alexa VIDEO

Enthusiastic residents ensured a colourful spectacle along the route, showcasing their neighbourhoods to national and international TV audiences.

Faringdon embraced this community spirit by turning their town pink. There were pink costumes, pink window displays, and pink bicycles. Even the iconic folly was decorated; draped with banners featuring the town’s pink pigeon mascot.

Throngs of spectators cheered noisily as the riders approached the finish at Blenheim Palace. Winner Jolien D’hoore is pictured crossing the line.

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VIDEO - OVO Stage 3 Race Day HD - Ruth

The OVO Energy Women’s Tour will return to Oxfordshire in 2020 and 2021.

We want this prestigious race to leave a legacy, motivating people, particularly young girls and women, to be more active and improve their health.

The race also provides an opportunity to showcase Oxfordshire as a cycling destination and to increase tourism in the county. The real benefit from hosting the race will come from the legacy.

Get inspired… watch the 2019 race highlights report on ‘That’s Oxfordshire TV’

 

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VIDEO - SweetSpot highlights... incl Faringdon pink