More than 1000 cyclists brought lashings of pedal power to the north-east yesterday for a gruelling bike ride through Royal Deeside and Moray.
The Etape Royale event took competitors on a 100, 65 or 45-mile closed-road circular route, starting and finishing in Ballater.
The challenge, which attracted a wide array of local and national participants, ferried them through many villages and towns, including Tarland, Alford, Rhynie, Dufftown, Tomintoul and Gairnshiel Lodge.
Among those tackling the three-day challenge was former Scottish rugby captain, Rob Wainwright and record-breaking long-distance cyclist, Mark Beaumont.
The latter said: “It has been a fantastic event. Rob and I left pre-dawn this morning and we’ve done the route chatting to a variety of people along the way and it’s incredible to hear how far people have travelled to take part.
“I’ve been so impressed with the level of community support – there were people at almost every corner cheering you on and the area should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”
Mr Wainwright added: “The weather has been fantastic and it’s a wonderful route. It’s tough and Mark definitely had to wait for me a few times, but I am proud of myself for getting across the finish line and I hope to take part again.”
The first person to complete the 100-mile race was Neil Graham in five hours five minutes and 41 seconds.
Mr Graham, from Banchory, said: “I wasn’t expecting to win, but it really depends who turns up on the day.
“It was brilliant to see so many people turn out and a huge thank you to all the organisers, volunteers and the local community who made it such a brilliant event.”
Helen Miskelly was the first woman home in a time of five hours and 28 minutes.
Perth cyclist Cameron Ritchie was the first person to cross the finish line yesterday, completing the 45-mile cycle.
The 19-year-old, who only signed up to the event a week ago, said: “It’s a tough route but a great event.
The ride was organised by Scottish company Wildfox Events, which has raised more than £30million for charity through a series of outdoor challenges.
Yesterday afternoon, Jo Fox-Pitt, from Wildfox Events, said she was delighted with the response and support the event had received.
She said: “This is only the second year, but we’re thrilled with how it has gone. It’s been a tough year for Ballater, so we really wanted to do something to bring people back into the village.”
