North-east cycling club hits the road in US

Deeside Thistle BRANCHES OUT INTO NEw MEXICO

By paul smith

Published:

A north-east cycling club has gone global with the formation of an American branch.

Deeside Thistle now boasts a group of riders in New Mexico as the outfit continues to go from strength to strength.

The club is banking on the start of the Tour de France on Saturday to raise interest even further as it embarks on the next stage of its development.

Thistle’s growing popularity has helped to attract a new four-year sponsorship deal with Freelance World and its sister company the Acumen Group.

Alan Campbell, chairman of the club, said: “Deeside Thistle is one of Scotland’s largest cycling clubs with a diverse membership and is a club that supports grass- roots participation and welcomes cyclists from all disciplines.

“It is gratifying that two forward-thinking businesses have chosen to invest in a sport that offers health and environmental benefits.

“The club continues to go from strength to strength and attracts new members.

“We have recently welcomed riders in Albuquerque, New Mexico, who have established a branch of the club in the US and who wear their Deeside Thistle jerseys with pride.”

The new club kit will feature the logos of the two new sponsors and members will be able to buy the equipment at cost price as part of the agreement.

Staff at both Freelance World and Acumen share a keen interest in cycling.

Freelance World managing director Alasdair McGill, Acumen Group director Mervyn Stanley and head of corporate and commercial services Steve Mitchell raised £6,000 in 2007 for Breast Cancer Care after completing the 300-mile London-Paris cycle ride. McGill said: “I have been involved in cycling for several years and have been a member of Deeside Thistle for two years.

“Since joining the club I have always been impressed by the level of enthusiasm, dedication and commitment shown by members and officials, either in participation or organisation.

“I know that people like club secretary Sandy Lindsay, who organised the highly successful Great Inverurie Bike Ride for many years, have put a great deal back into to cycling. “

Deeside Thistle was founded in 1953 and has about 400 members.

It covers all aspects of cycling, including road racing, time trials, mountain biking, touring and recreational riding. It organises competitions and recreational events, runs its own coaching sessions and is actively encouraging youngsters to take part in the sport.

Further information is available online at www.deeside.org