The inaugural Giant Kendal - Castle Sportive starts and finishes at the majestic Lowther Castle. It follows a figure of eight route for 58 miles with 5118ft of accent (93k/1560m), that allows spectators to support from the splendour of Lowther Castle grounds. Looking out across the Lake District National Park, Lowther Castle has over 130 acres of hidden gardens, enchanting woodland and breath-taking views.

Ideally situated as the start and finish for a stunning ride around quiet Cumbrian lanes and amazing scenery with a ‘feature’ climb thrown in the first half so those legs are still nice and fresh. For those that like challenges we have additional spot prizes based on Strava course segments (click link below to joint our Strava Group to participate). This climb is manageable for those who want to take it slightly easier and save their legs.

If a bike ride isn’t your thing, Lowther Castle is the perfect location for a family day out, and we have designed the route so riders will come back through the grounds during their ride for supporters to give them a well-earned cheer!

Entry to the Giant Kendal - Castle Sportive also includes two free child places to the Lost Castle worth £14; these must be used on the day of the event. One adult must accompany the children at a cost of £9.

Info for Riders

Event Headquarters, Registration, Start & Finish

Lowther Castle,

Lowther,

Penrith

CA10 2HH

Date and Time

Sunday 18th June 2017

Start time range: 08:00-10:00 am

Registration: from 7:00 am

Route Markings

The route will be well signed with 'CYCLE ROUTE' signs in addition to road markings where necessary. However, we do also advise you familiarise yourself with the route and carry a printed route card and description with you. Although the route is well marked the route card is an essential back up and will include emergency contact numbers. You can download the GPS file of the route map on the link below.

General event details

Please ensure your bike is in a roadworthy condition for the event, including checking the brakes (important for the descents along the route!).

You should also bring tools, spare inner tubes and money for emergencies. There will be a ‘sweeper’ wagon, but you need to be equipped for any mechanical difficulties you might have.

You can start the ride any time between 08:00 am and 10:00 am. A maximum of 20 riders will start every 2 minutes between these times.

You should choose your own start time but we advise slower riders start earlier, to allow more time to complete the distance, and faster riders start later to avoid early arrival at the feed stop. This will also ensure riders are spread out on the roads. Finish times can range from 3-7 hours.

It is compulsory that you wear a hard shell cycling helmet (ANSI standard or similar). No helmet, no ride.

You will need to register when you arrive; registration will be open from 07:00 am and will be in the Castle courtyard. Directions of where you need to go will be clearly marked. Any final updates or route information will be available at registration, in addition to the timing chip you will need to collect.

Food stops

The course is a figure of eight loop, therefore the food stop will be at roughly the half-way point and will be situated at the start / finish area within Lowther Castle grounds.

The Finish

Once you have crossed the finish line a marshal will remove your timing chip. Please ensure this is done as soon as you finish, there will be a charge for any timing chips not returned.

Post Ride Refreshments

Food and drinks are available for all riders to purchase at the Lowther Castle café, situated in the Castle courtyard.

How old do I have to be?

Minimum age for the event is 16 years of age.

Parking

Ample free parking at Lowther Castle.

Toilets

Riders can use the facilities just off the main courtyard which will be signed. You will have exclusive access to one of the blocks.

How much to enter?

£30

Included within your entry is:

Free entry for two children into the Lost Castle attraction (tickets will be provided at registration)

A well-stocked food stop at halfway

Fully signed course

Automatic timing and results by SiEntries

Specially timed Strava challenges with prizes (you must joint our Strava Group for this see link below)

Specially timed hill challenge (not Strava dependent)

Free Goodies at registration

Event insurance provided by British Cycling