Starts: Helwith Bridge near Settle, North Yorkshire
On: Sunday 26th September 2004
The toughest cyclo-cross race in the world - taking in the climbs of Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-Ghent. Sadly the entry is now closed but it is still well worth a trip just to watch. So if you fancy a day out riding to stunning vantage points, in some of the best countryside in the UK, get up to North Yorkshire this weekend.
This race is unique. It's also slightly insane and incredibly tough. Organiser John Rawnsley has competed in every event since its inception in 1960 and his enthusiasm for this event is admirable. They've only missed one year (due to foot and mouth).
It suits fell runners and riders who like a fast and scary descent as only competitors riding cyclo-cross bikes will be allowed to take part. Mountain bikes (or any other type of two-wheeled transport) are not permitted and anyone who appears (in the opinion of the race officials) to contravene this rule will be disqualified and/or prevented from taking part in the race - so just skinny tyres on this terrain, it's madness.
Who will win? Well the start sheet is packed with favourites and past winners; Rob Jebb (winner last year) and Nick Craig (second last year) and Andy Peace, Chris Young, Ian Taylor, Richard Thackray, Geoff Beetham, Carl Sturgeon, Dave Collins, Paul Oldham, Ian Wilkinson and Keith Murray also ride so expect a great race as there's always a few first timers that do well too. In the womens race Louise Robinson will be hard to beat.
Details:
Start from Helwith Bridge Hotel, 2 miles south of Horton-in Ribblesdale.
Vets, ladies and juniors at 9.30am and seniors at 10.00am.
Race distance is 38 miles, of which 34 is rideable (20 cross and 18 road) and 5000 feet of climbing. Neutralised start for 5.5km (led by the safety car) for safety reasons because of the nature of the local roads. For full course information and where to get the best view go here. Take your bike as it's the easiest way to see the race and doesn't clog up the roads with extra cars.
Results and stuff will be at www.ukresults.net
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