Dengie Marshes goes National A

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Story posted January 10 Event Press Release Hell of the East on April 3rd promoted by GatewayCycling.org.uk www.dengiemarshestour.com: Dengie Marshes Tour Goes National A The fourth outing of this famous race sees it elevated to National A status which, say the organiers, help attract the major UK teams. A revised course presents some interesting changes. Whilst the race still features unclassified farm roads and tracks, some private, they are not regularly maintained and in places in poor condition.A minimal neutralised section leads to the outward 'Flanders Landscape' leg at the end of which is the infamous farm track. This year, the first passage is up the long steady incline of ash clinker and earth. A short road section precedes the circuit with a figure of eight circuit partially on farm roads with the second half including a new 'non tarmac' private road.

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Photo: Mark Cozens.

At over 1km in length, it requires bike handling skills not unlike traversing Belgian cobbles. At the west of the circuit, is an innovation for Dengie, a hill! Short and steep, it could see the end for any with already weakened legs. After five circuits, the riders retrace the outward route, taking in a descent of the churned up farm track.

The final westerly miles along the open, pan flat and exposed poorly surfaced marsh roads will live long in the memories of those who survive this far. Especially if, as if often the case, there is a head wind. The outskirts of Burnham will be a return to civilization, the finish on the railway bridge is neither steep nor long but after 133km/83 miles, it may seem like Mount Everest to some.

From some riders who have competed in the past come quotes like “my kit is dirty, my bike is filthy & covered in mud, my legs are shot. I blame the Dengie Marshes Tour, thank you I loved it”. Another said "Many thanks for a fantastic race, will certainly be back next year“. Alan Rosner, organiser, meanwhile says “I am not aware of any other UK road race that offers such challenges”.

New for 2011, there will be a 'King of the Early Season Classics' award which will be a special award given to the rider gaining the most British Cycling ranking points from classic road races such as the The Jock Wadley, the Wally Gimber and the Dengie Marshes Tour.

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