The Merlin Ride is now in its 6th year and has devloped into one of the most exciting sportives in Wales.  For 2013 we have introduced several new features:

Two new routes: 50mile (Druid), 85 mile (Emlyn). These routes link into the tried and tested 70 mile (Cothi) and 105 mile (Merlin).

All routes start and finish at the magnificent National Botanic Garden of Wales with a mass start on police controlled roads.  After 10 miles, at Llandeilo, the 50 and 85 mile routes split, with the 70 and 105 heading off for the infamous Black Mountains and the new routes following the 'A' 40 to Llangadog to the first feed station.  This is also the location of our mechanical breakdown service provided by Cycle Tec.

Those arriving early have a choice of waiting for thier friends to arrive off the Black Mountain or carry on and see how far they get before getting caught!

New Hill Climb; The 'Y Polyn' Challenge is located on the last climb of the day, all routes have to use the climb and the fastest time gets a full Merlin Ride Cycle Kit.  Manufactured by Force GB in Yorkshire this is top quality cycle kit.  Order yours today on our web site for collection at registration.   

You will have High 5 products available at all feed stations and also plain drinking water, cakes, sweets and a savoury option.

Out and about the route is fully signposted which should help you stay on track.  Our website carries more detail of the routes and for those with Garmin devices you can down load the route before starting.

All riders will be issued with a time chip for their shoe, this ensures that your time is recorded interactivly and published immediatly you finish on our web site.

We will have marshalls at key locations and mobile marshalls from Carmarthen Motor Cycle Club, we will also have a team of marshalls with breakdown facility and the ability to recover you and your bike.  

St John's Ambulance will also be on site to ensure you have immediate health care in the event that the worst happens.

Post event there is a cycle show with displays from the leading manufacturers and equipment suppliers.  There is a full restaurant facility at the Garden, however we will provide you with some refreshments.

Also available at the finsih will be a team of physiotherapists from Alleviate.  The team will be on hand to give you a massage and get you ready for your drive home.  

The National Botanic Garden of Wales provides acres of free car parking, changing and toilet facilities and an early morning cafe for your use.  Entrants will also get a free day pass for one family member and a further discount for groups. 

Pre-registration from 5pm to 7pm on Saturday 29th June.

Your efforts will be captured by George Burges Photography, probably one of the best sports photographers out there, check out his web site for more information or see some examples from last year on our site: www.georgeburgessphotogrpahy.com

Info for Riders

The National Botanic Garden of Wales is the venue for the Merlin Ride. Acres of free car parking, toilet and changing facilities and an early morning cafe. Fully timed event with a mass start on Police controlled roads. Choice of 50, 70, 85 and 105 mile routes on 'A' and 'B' Class roads with low traffic flow ensuring plenty of space for enjoyable cycling. Option of crossing the infamous Black Mountain with its alpine style climbs and technical descent. Timed hill climb with free cycle kit for winner. Full mechanical facilities out on route provided by Cycle-Tec and our mobile marshalls. Fully loaded feed stations with products from High 5. Post event cycle show, refreshments and physiotherapy. Free entry to the Gardens for one family member and group discount. Photography service and much much more