Brian Boyle and I were sadly the only representatives of the club in this fantastic event, probably one of the most challenging events in the UK. This year's event was made even more challenging by the horrendous weather conditions which welcomed the competitors at the start. There was a line up of 1000 riders plus a few extra riders (of which I was one) who rode despite not managing to get an official slot. The event began immediately with a steep climb up Hawshead Hill, after this descent torrential rain started which hampered us up our first major climb - Kirkstone Pass, but conditions improved for the next 30 miles on our route north to Keswick. On the way we managed to shelter in groups until the field was split completely by Honister Pass. This was swiftly followed by Newlands Pass which brought us to the foot of Whinlatter Pass where the heavens opened again for about the next 3 hours. The wind also started to blow strong as we embarked on our trek over to the coast and we suffered badly with the cold. The second feed station was very welcome and we took the opportunity to stop for a cup of tea and a sarnie whilst the helpers (the event was fantastically organised) prepared our bottles for the final leg.
And quite a final leg it was - after 98 miles we were faced with the wall that is Hardknott Pass (30% gradient the sun made an appearance here!) But there was great support to help drag us to the top. The majority of riders were beaten by the this challenge and elected to walk up, but thanks to our training up Woolton Hill me and Bri rode to the top (despite me getting cramp half way up and Bri having a tumble, having realised he started the 30% climb in his big ring!) only to be reminded of the hair raising descent and that this was immediately followed by Wrynose Pass (30% again). From the foot of Wrynose as Bri was feeling strong and I was knackered I urged him to push on for a time and he finished in a great time of 8 hrs 27 mins and I coasted in at 8 hrs 30 mins (both finishing in the top half of the field). The winner completed the 112 mile course in an incredible 6 hrs 5 mins and the slowest time was over 12 hours. If any club members fancy a really challenging sportive next year I recommend it as it was well organised from start to finish. A word of warning though - get loads of hill training in! - over 12,000 feet of ascent. Great fun!! Hope everyone enjoys reading about our pain, the memory of which will stay with me for many years.
Regards to all - Mark Stevens
http://www.fredwhittonchallenge.org.uk/
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