The CTC have made a lumpy addition to their to their Challenge Ride and Sportive calendar, with more than 4,500 feet of climbing packed into 68 miles on the Witches’ Curse Sportive in Clitheroe, Lancashire, on Sunday March 18 .
Two distances are available, with the 68-mile route featuring 15 climbs to test early-season form. A short route of 45 miles is also on offer, with neither course straying more than 10 miles from the finish in case you decide to throw in the towel.
Both routes head out in a clockwise direction from Clitheroe town centre and take in the ascent of Nick O’Pendle – a 3km climb with an average of 6.2 per cent, featuring in past editions of the Tour of Britain – and a host of other Pendle Hills before the routes split at Low Moor. From here the short route heads back to the finish while the longer route continues to Longridge and Hallgate Hill before returning via Waddington.
Both routes will be fully signed and timed, with mechanical support on route and at the HQ, plus a broom wagon, feed stops and free food at the finish.
The also sees the launch of the new Shimano Test Wheel Fleet, giving entrants an opportunity to try out Shimano’s top-end wheels during the sportive for free.
Entries are limited to 400 and£17 in advance for CTC members and £27 for non-members, while teams of four can register for £60. Entries will be accepted on the day if the event has not sold out but will be subject to a £5 surcharge.
Enter online at www.ctcchallengerides.co.uk
