A new 62-mile route has been added to the 2013 edition of the Forest of Dean Classic sportive, to be held on Sunday May 5.
The event, which is in its ninth year, has traditionally been held over a testing 90-mile route, with no less than 20 climbs along the length of the course, making for more than 8,000-feet of ascent.
Climbs include Broadwell and Bulls Hill but the real sting in the tail is the 25 per cent grind of Symonds Yat, which comes less than ten miles from the finish. Thankfully, however, it is the last climb of the day before a fast descent to the finish.
The 62-mile route has been added for, according to the sportive’s organisers, “riders wanting a testing day out but without the long distance”. The reduced route takes in eight climbs, instead of 20, but still includes more than 6,600-feet of climbing and ends with Symonds Yat.
Both routes will be fully signposted, have well-stocked feed stations, including ClifBar energy products and savoury snacks on the second feed, plus full mechanical back up en-route as well as at the start/finish, and a broom wagon should all else fail.
Free tea and coffee will be available before the start, as well as a snack after the ride for all finishers. The event HQ at Monmouth Showgrounds will have free parking and on-site camping, which must be pre-booked with the organisers beforehand.
Online entry costs £29.50 and will close on Wednesday May 1, while entries can be made on the day for £35. Visit www.wheelsinwheels.com for more information.
