Cyprus Cycling Race Enters Its Third Decade

The Cyprus Cycle Challenge has been running since the mid-1990s. Open to both military and civilians within British Forces Cyprus, it involves four days of riding across 300 miles (500 km).

Riders must endure over 5,000 metres of climbing over the course of the 4-day event. 

"Most of us are people that haven't cycled for long"

The first two days of cycling covered more than 250 kilometres. But day three involves 2,500 metres of climbing from the coast up to Mount Olympus.

The route of the event takes the cyclists through the United Nations buffer zone that divides Cyprus and past Nicosia International Airport, which has been abandoned since 1974. 

Four days after they set off, well wishers gathered near the finish at Ayios Nikalaos Station to encourage the riders.   

More than 20 years after the event began, the Cyprus Cycle Challenge continues to grow in popularity.