A HIGHLIGHT OF the UK cycling calendar that includes a section passing through Moray is celebrating obtaining a headline sponsor.
For the second consecutive year Quilter Cheviot Investment Management has sponsored the Etape Royale, a closed-road cycle sportive set in the North East.
Featuring a 45-mile route as well as the 65 and 100-mile option, Quilter Cheviot Etape Royale will take cyclists through Aberdeenshire and Moray’s breathtaking scenery, through the heart of whisky country and Royal Deeside.
Quilter Cheviot, which has offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow, is supporting the event to underpin its commitment to Scotland and as part of a wider sponsorship programme that sees the firm backing a series of key cycling challenges across the UK.
As was the case in 2015, the Quilter Cheviot Etape Royale will start and finish in the Royal Burgh of Ballater a region severely affected by recent floods in the wake of Storm Frank and Quilter Cheviot’s commitment to the event will provide a welcome injection at a critical time.
David Loudon, Quilter Cheviot Chief Executive said, “The Etape Royale is a fantastic event set in a stunning part of Scotland.
“Having been involved with the challenge last year we understand how it helps to support the local economy in Ballater and surrounding communities in Aberdeenshire and Moray. We feel that support is absolutely crucial this year, given the impact of recent floods.
“Many of our colleagues, clients and contacts are keen cyclists and we want to demonstrate our shared passion for the sport through initiatives such as this.”
In September Etape Royale will provide a spectacular spectacle when it visits Dufftown – which will also be the start point for the event’s 45-mile route.
David Fox-Pitt, Director of Wild Fox Events the challenge events company who organise The Etape Royale, said: “We are thrilled to announce Quilter Cheviot as our headline sponsor for 2016.
“Working with the Quilter Cheviot team in 2015, including those who actually took part in the event, was very positive and I know that Quilter Cheviot’s experience and professionalism will add much to the event.
“We welcome them back and are delighted that together we can build on the success of 2015 to ensure that participants of this year’s Etape have a spectacular and memorable day whilst supporting the local community in Ballater and all along the route.”