The Isle of Man has been chosen to host the 2017 British National Road Race Championships in June.
Geographically and politcially separate from the UK, the Isle of Man has produced a wealth of cycling talent and the event will help to showcase it as a cycling destination.
Mark Cavendish, national champion in 2013 and a close second in 2016, is the island's most famous cyclist. However, the Isle of Man's hilly terrain may not suit the 30-time Tour de France stage winner and former World Champion.
Team Sky's Peter Kennaugh, himself a two-time national champion after wins in 2014 and 2015, is also a Manxman and won the second of his titles on the cobbled ascent of Michaelgate in Lincoln. He could make it a third nationals win on a course that is likely to suit his strengths.
The championships will commence on Thursday 22nd June with the time trials and finish with the men's race on Sunday 25th June.
Current national time trial champion Alex Dowsett is expected to take the start line with an eye on taking a record sixth title in seven years.
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In 2016, sisters Hannah and Alice Barnes crossed the finish line first and second respectively in the women's road race to be awarded the senior and U23 titles. Hannah will continue to wear the national champion's colours in the Women's WorldTour during the Spring campaign with Canyon-SRAM.
Discussing the decision to hold the 2017 British National Road Race Championships on the Isle of Man, Jonny Clay, British Cycling’s director of cycling, said: “We are thrilled to be returning to the Isle of Man for the biggest date in the British road racing calendar.
"The island is steeped in cycling heritage, passion and tradition, making it the ideal venue for such a prestigious event," he added.