Sir Chris Hoy MBE was present to show support for the launch of the Jaguar Cycle Challenge at The London Bike Show 2013. The multiple world and Olympic champion track cyclist, and Jaguar Academy of Sport Ambassador, was on hand as the programme, which will be managed by Jaguar dealerships in partnership with local cycling clubs throughout the UK, was announced to an enthusiastic audience.

Speaking at the event, which attracted over 85,000 visitors throughout the weekend to London Excel, Sir Chris Hoy MBE said: “It is fantastic to see Jaguar and its network of UK dealers taking an active role in cycling. I hope people across the nation are inspired to take part in the Jaguar Cycle Challenge.

“It is important that we harness the rising popularity of cycling in this country and through the Jaguar Academy of Sport, there is a real opportunity to facilitate the development of rising stars in this great sport.”

Every Jaguar dealer across the UK will be holding their inaugural Cycle Challenge events on 01 February, working with local cycling clubs and bicycle retailers to support and encourage cycling programmes in the local community.  A Jaguar dealer locator is available online at: http://www.jaguar.com/gb/en/dealerlocator/

The commitment of Jaguar to cycling is highlighted by its successful partnership with Team Sky; winners of the 2012 Tour de France. Two prototype versions of the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake in striking livery were used to support the Team Sky Riders and its management team throughout cycling’s most famous endurance race.

During the first weekend in February visitors to UK Jaguar dealers can be among the first to discover why the new XF Sportbrake lives at the heart of the pro-peloton, and prepare to achieve peak cycling performance in 2013. The all-new XF Sportbrake is a serious cyclist’s dream. With a balance of flowing beauty and intelligent utility, it’s packed with sophisticated technology for ultimate driving engagement, yet offers a spacious 1,675 litres of loadspace to accommodate cycling equipment.