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Stage Two of the 2011 Tour of Britain was cancelled yesterday (Monday September 12th) after extremely high winds and fears for rider safety.
The pro race is back on for Stage Three today, however, riding in Stoke on Trent. The riders started earlier today (10:30) at Trentham Gardens and is expected to finish between 13:50 and 14:30 in the city centre this afternoon.
The event organisers took the unusual step of calling off Stage Two – from Kendal to Blackpool – after gusts of 75mph were recorded. With large sections of the route on exposed hillsides and the final five kilometres of the stage along Blackpool Promenade, safety concerns for riders and spectators took precedence over the race.
Speaking yesterday Tour of Britain race director Mick Bennett said: “The safety of competitors, officials, staff and of course spectators is of more importance than the spectacle of the event. We cannot, and will not take the slightest risk when it comes to safety, hence today’s decision.”
It’s back to business as usual today, although high winds are still expected to buffet the riders today. According to the Met Office, the strength of the gusts will not be as excessive as on Monday.
