Caerphilly County Borough since 2013, when Caerphilly town hosted a stage finish
The world’s top cycling stars will be returning to Caerphilly County Borough in September as the Tour of Britain race sweeps through for a stage.
Between 2011 and 2013, Caerphilly town hosted a stage finish for the tour, until council funding cuts put the brakes on in 2014.
Now the race will return as part of Stage Five of this year’s event, although there will be no stage finish.
The race will be making its way through Nelson, Ystrad Mynach, Pontllanfraith, Blackwood, Oakdale and Crumlin as it heads the 205km from Aberdare to Bath.
Tour de France winner and seven-time Olympic medallist Bradley Wiggins will undoubtedly be the star attraction and will be racing in the colours of his own Team Wiggins.
As well as Stage Five on September 8, Wales will also be hosting the previous stage held the day before between Denbigh and Builth Wells.
Speaking at the Royal Welsh Show on Monday, July 18, First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “I am delighted to launch two new Welsh stages of the Tour of Britain.
“The race is a great opportunity for us to showcase the beautiful Welsh landscape to the cyclists taking part as well as the thousands of spectators who watch the thrilling competition.
“Following the magnificent Euro 2016 tournament, Wales’ sporting achievements are being recognised and celebrated around the globe. I hope being part of the Tour of Britain will continue to inspire people in Wales to take up sport.”
Ten of world cycling’s elite teams will be competing in this year’s race.
Tour of Britain Race Director Mick Bennett said: “This is a world-class line-up of teams entirely befitting of the Tour of Britain’s continuing growth in stature and importance on the global cycling calendar.
“Half of the teams selected are currently racing in the Tour de France, giving British fans a taste of the high-level of competition which they can look forward to watching this September.”