- 23 Sept 2012
Event organisers, Square to Square, are holding an exciting new event on Sunday 23 Sept 2012, as part of the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival. They have come up with a new idea – a sportive which is aimed at those keen to blow the cobwebs off their bikes prior to the start of the cyclocross race season, though they are by no means restricting entry to dedicated cyclocross riders. If you’ve got a MTB, a hybrid or any bike that’ll handle a bit of the rough stuff sat in the shed waiting for a bit of action, then this is the ride for you.
This is what they have to say about the event:
We’ve used our knowledge of the island’s network of bridleways, byways and lanes to devise an excellent, predominantly off road trail route covering 36 miles.
The route comprises of two loops, so you can choose how hard you want to go. The first loop is 12.5 miles, and is the shorter and steeper of the two. It’s set in the beautiful downlands on the west of the island for a few short sharp climbs and sweeping descents. You can then decide back at the checkpoint if your legs are up to the second loop. This is a faster, flatter 23.5 mile route taking you along lanes and cycle tracks - to get you to some lesser known off road routes either side of the Eastern Yar Valley. (Of course, you can always just do the second loop if you wish).
And, if you fancy making this ride a bit more of a challenge, we’re offering electronic chip timing as an option too!
The route will be well signed, and if you get lost or break your bike we’re on call to help you out (there will be a small fee for mechanical assistance). Water, changing and showering facilities are available at Carisbrooke College and energy snacks will be available to buy.
You’ll be able to register and set off between 9am and 11am and we’ll be waiting to welcome you back as late as 5pm.
As you spin off the last couple of miles on the road back to Carisbrooke you can look forward to those cold, wet, muddy days ahead! What better way to kick off your Cyclocross season!?
We look forward to seeing you there!
