OKEHAMPTON Cycle Club is presenting an evening of Roller Racing — the indoor activity where competitors ride side by side on static bikes — as seen on the ITV Cycle Show.

On Sunday, February 4, the cycle club will be hosting a special event in association with Rollapaluza cycling events.

Roller racing was a popular indoor sport in the pre-war era, where cycle-enthusiasts race on static bikes and the equivalent distance they travel is recorded on a display behind them.

The winner is the rider who covers the set 500-metre distance the quickest.

Nigel Hale-Hunter, spokesperson of Okehampton Cycle Club, said: ‘This fast paced sport is great for spectators who can see all the action taking place in front of them and they are encouraged to get in close and cheer on the riders.

‘We are delighted to be hosting this exciting and fun event, which will take the form of a qualifying round with the fastest 46 riders going through to a series of knock-out stages.

‘Competitors will ride in pairs on specially adapted Condor bikes provided by Rollapaluza, which will be running the event. The bikes are adjustable for all sizes of rider and are fitted with toe-clips and straps so are suitable for any flat-soled shoes or trainers.

‘Afterwards all competitors will be emailed with confirmation of their time and a photo of them racing. ‘

The event will be held at the Charter Hall on Saturday, February 4.

For information about how to get involved, visit the ‘Okehampton Cycle Club OKCC’ Facebook page.