SOMERSET HILLS GRAN FONDO

The road Sportives have a designed route incorporating a few flat sections, but is about a maximum output with testing climbs and descents.  Both the Gran Fondo and Medio Fondo Routes take in the breathtaking Mendip, Quantock and Exmoor Hills.  These great rides embody all the Comeraderie, Fun, Good Cheer and Natural Beauty that are the heart and soul of Cycling.  The two distances are 170 km and 100 km approx at this stage.    Exact details, profiles and routes will be posted on www.cheddarchallenge.com in due course.

The usual maps for the Road Sportive and timing will be provided on the day at sign on.  Medical cover at the start and the finish area will be available as will feed stops around the course  and at the finish for all competitors. Third party insurance is provided by British Cycling.  It is advised that all individuals also provide their own insurance.

Details about the routes will be posted on our web site www.cheddarchallenge.com including total altitude, difficulty rating and distances.  It is our intention to make this a memorable ride for participants.

These events are mass participation rides, so start times will be staggered from 9.00 a.m. Each rider will be provided with a credit type card on a lanyard around the neck. There will be a £25 charge for all cards, lost/broken or missing.  These are punched at the beginning with your start time and at various points around the course. The final one to be punched at the finish area.  We feel this system will prove to be more efficient, than previous. Although timing is used, the purpose for this is that all participants can see the time and the distance they rode it in.  No prizes are awarded.  No rider numbers are used.

 ROUTES  for the Sportive Cyclists, a route card will be provided with an arrowed route, the total distance and a shorter alternative. However the routes will be able to be downloaded from the internet the week before the event. Minimum age 18 years.

All riders of any age must wear a helmet.  Insurance is null and void if not strictly adhered to.