Cheddar Caves and Gorge organisers of the annual Crag Attack (Cheddar Gorge Climbing Marathon) have today announced a new sportive on 16 May to add to the growing list of such events in 2010.

Cheddar is an area well known with cyclists, being a popular destination with mountain bikers as well as featuring in the first day of the three-day Tour of Wessex sportive. The Cheddar Gorge sportive offers a route incorporating a few flat sections but it is ‘about a maximum output with searing climbs and fast descents’. The start itself is in the famous Cheddar Gorge, a notorious killer climb.  Another three Gorges feature on the 80km plus route.

Toilet facilities and cafes are immediately available in the Gorge. Accommodation in Hotels, B & B and Holiday Caravan, Camping Parks abound in the village www.cheddarcaves.co.uk or [email protected]. Parking is available in public pay and display. Free parking is available at Broadway Acres, opposite Broadway House Caravan Park, Axbridge Road BS27 3DB.  Free transport for non cyclists on the Cheddar Caves and Gorge open top, Double Decker Bus.

Start times will be staggered from 9.30 am. Although timing is available, the purpose for this is that all participants can see what time they completed their ride in. No prizes are awarded. No rider numbers are used. All participants must fit the timing transponder  to front forks which is provided with written instructions  Please bring zip ties just in case. All transponders to be returned at the end of the event, or £10 fee levied.

More information will be added and updated at www.cheddarchallenge.com. Certificates will be provided for all participants who complete their distance, giving their exact time.