A few years ago, Ian Street, Leeds’ leading welshman, organised what he called the Leeds Bicycle Film Club. I used to travel over once a month to watch the films that he curated and which were shown in the projection room of a pub just outside the city centre. Cycling films form a rich genre of celluloid splendour, although what quite contitues a ‘cycling film’ is a grey area. Ultimately, who cares? The events were good fun and usually involved beer so what’s not to like? It was thus with delight that a couple of days ago I spotted the following video on Facebook:
This is actually an initiative that started in France but, now in its 4th ‘season’, has spread its wings to include a handful of other countries, including the UK. Throughout late January and early February 2025, in 16 different locations, you can watch “two and a half hours of pure adrenaline, sports, nature, and freedom.” Here’s more from the organisers:
“Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just curious, come along for an immersive journey into the world of cycling. From celebrated legends to dedicated enthusiasts, discover inspiring stories where cycling is more than just a hobby-it’s a way of life. Get ready to feel the thrill, escape the ordinary, and be moved by unforgettable films.”
I think a return to Leeds is on the cards for me for Friday 24th January 2025.
More details about the events on the Cyclist Film Festival website.
LATEST CYCLING EUROPE POSTS:
- Reviewing The Reviews: 100 Episodes Of The Cycling Europe Podcast
- 100 Episodes (Nearly…) Of The Cycling Europe Podcast: A Journey Across A Continent (And Beyond)
- The Cycling Europe Podcast: Episode 099 – Gerald Huber – The North Cape 4000
- Episode 099: Gerald Huber – Cycling The North Cape 4000
- Top Charities & Grants That Provide Special Needs Tricycles For Families
Subscribe to the Cycling Europe YouTube Channel
Le Grand Tour on a Bike Called Wanda, was published in May 2024 and recounts Andrew P. Sykes’ journey around France, into the Alps and down the Rhine in the summer of 2022. It is available as a paperback and as and eBook from Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.com (and other international Amazon sites). The paperback is also available from Waterstones or Foyles and the eBook from Apple iBooks.
Since 2009, CyclingEurope.org has established itself as a valued, FREE cycle touring resource. There’s now even a podcast, The Cycling Europe Podcast. If you enjoy the website and the podcast, please consider supporting the work of CyclingEurope.org with a donation. More information here.
Catch up with The Cycling Europe Podcast:
Discover more from CyclingEurope.org
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
I just wish the films would start earlier so that they could finish earlier and in time to get to Piccadilly for the last train. Any chance of the film on Albania which is in the French programme being shown in the UK???