UK cycling season opener 2020 Eddie Soens Race cancelled

Update: The 2020 Eddie Soens Memorial Cycle Race will go ahead after all, now organized by The Harry Middleton Cycling Club. Entries are now open.

Merseyside Cycling Development Group (MCDG) confirm that The Eddie Soens Memorial Cycle Race will not take place in 2020.

In recent years the race has been run without sponsorship, relying instead on limited legacy funds and income from entry fees. However the continuing escalation of costs, coupled with the reduced field size imposed by British Cycling, means that the event is no longer economically viable.

Created by Kirkby Cycling Club in 1962, ‘The Soens’ was the classic season-opening event in Merseyside cycling. Taking place at the iconic Aintree Motor Racing Circuit near Liverpool, it attracted riders and teams from all across the country.

During its 58 year history the race saw many famous victories including the first ever win by a junior – Steve Cummings in 1999. Doug Dailey and Tony Gibb had 4 wins each while World and Olympic Champion Ed Clancy took 3. The final edition of the race in 2019 saw an epic solo win for Matt Bottrill adding to his previous victory in 1998.

We would like to thank everyone who has supported the race throughout the years.