Thousands are descending on Leeds this weekend in preparation for the Grand Depart.
Spectators, journalists and even royalty are expected as two hundred cyclists set off from The Headrow this Saturday.
In the 101st Tour de France, cyclists will travel from Leeds to Harrogate, York and Sheffield before heading south to Cambridge and London.
They will cycle over 3,500km before arriving on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, where one rider will claim the famous yellow jersey in three weeks’ time.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry are among those expected to cheer on competitors including Chris Froome, last year’s British winner.
Speaking to Leeds Student, the University’s Head of Sport Rob Wadsworth said: “Over the next few days, the city will come alive with cycling”.
University events marking the run-up to the Tour include designing a countdown clock for the Trinity Shopping Centre and hosting part of the Leeds Sky Ride in June.
A First-year Japanese student told this paper: “It’s really exciting for the city. I probably wouldn’t watch it if it wasn’t in Leeds”.
Leeds was chosen to host the Grand Depart in 2012 following a Welcome to Yorkshire campaign.
Charlotte Mason
Photo: Yorkshire Post