Le Mans 24 hours cycling

With four months to go to the first ever edition of the cycling 24 hours of Le Mans in France, 175 teams representing 680 cyclists have registered from all France and Europe. The race will be held on August 22-23. According to Le Mans endurance tradition, teams will be free to build their own relay strategy in order to ride as many laps as possible within the 24 Hours. They will experience the thrill of competing all through the night and see the sun rising on the circuit.

"We're delighted to see the interest growing for the event”, said former Crédit Agricole team manager and patron of the race Roger Legeay. He'll be himself one of the former cyclists on the start line. Stéphane Sarrazin, Peugeot 908's driver for the next Le Mans 24 hours car race and owner of the 2008 fastest lap record, will be competing too.

Whether it is for fun or to take on a challenge, during two days, contestants will be able to:

• Take part to the Morning event called "La Matinale Decathlon”: an hour to discover thelegendary Bugatti racetrack.
• Take part and attend the 24 Hours Cycling Race
• Visit the Le Mans 24 Hours village, with exhibitions, shows and workshops.

Facts and numbers about the 24 Hours Cycling Race:

• 175 teams already registered from 56 French departments.
• Other foreign countries are represented: United Kingdom, Belgium, Luxembourg, Cayman Islands and Switzerland.
• Former professionals have registered: Eddy Seigneur, Eric Leblacher and Jean François Bernard.
• 500 teams are expected (maximum) means 2000 to 3000 contestants
• The Bugatti Circuit a lap of 4185 meters.
• Registrations until 31st of July, 2009
• Registrations fees per person from 100€ for a team of 8 riders to 250€ for a single rider

Information and registration: www.24heuresvelo.fr/en