10 | Cycling World
Broughton
Castle Sportive
Sunday 9 th July
A
s cycling sportives go, few can boast
such a beautiful setting as the Broughton
Castle S ortive. Starting and finishing in
the stunning grounds of Broughton Castle,
cyclists will make their way through the picturesque
gardens, out through the gatehouse and over the
traditional moat, before riding through the tranquil
Cotswolds countryside.
There are four routes to choose from, to ensure
that cyclists of all levels are able to take part. These
include:
•
The Cotswold Monster 100: This 160km (100 mile)
route follows a challenging figure-of-eight course
that includes many of the most di cult climbs in
the area. Cyclists wi ll take on Nebsworth Lane,
Snowshill and Butler’s Lane, as well as a number
of relatively more minor inclines. It is expected
that most attendees will complete this course in
between five and ten hours.
• Cotswold Classic 50: This slightly shorter route
twists and turns through the most beautiful
areas of the Cotswold, covering 80km (50 miles)
in total. It includes many of the same ascents as
the Monster 100, but competitors are expected to
finish in three to five hours.
• Cotswold Tour 20: This 32km (20 mile) route is
designed to appeal to those who have not
completed many sportives in the past. The windy
cycle passes through Shutford and Epwell,
avoiding the large hills of the first two routes
and is the perfect introduction to the Broughton
Castle event.
• Family Fun Ride: There is nothing competitive
about this 10km (5.5 mile) route. Ideal for those
aged five and over, the terrain is fairly flat for
most of the journey and includes a treasure hunt
to motivate and inspire the children.
All those taking part in the rides will receive a medal,
and there is a free BBQ at the end for all to enjoy
(those taking part in the family event will have to pay
for refreshments . The first cyclist to cross the finish
line of each route will be awarded a trophy by Lord
Saye and Sele.
This is the fifth year that this fun event has taken
place, with all the proceeds being donated to local
charities. Over 700 riders have taken part each year,
and a total of £42,000 has been raised so far.
The Castle provides free car-parking and all cyclists
are equipped with electronic chip timing for the most
accurate results. Feed stations are located at various
points on each route, and mechanical and medical
support is always available, including a sweep vehicle
to hel anyone who finds they cannot finish the route.
To register for any of the events, visit
http://www.broughtoncastlesportive.co.uk/.
The website also has information about the fees
and registration times.