You may have read on RCUK the news story about the Etape earlier this week. We reported that there are changes in the way that the Etape is organised – It is now impossible for you to enter via the Etape website or by post. There are a few ‘select agents’ worldwide who have been appointed to deal with the entry and travel arrangements for all competitors.

That’s the bad news…

…the good news is Sportstours are the main UK agent dealing with the entries and their experience in organising Etape trips is second to none. Their cheapest trips will be of the no frills DIY variety, where you get there yourself and take advantage of pre arranged B&B and entry. Or more luxurious packages available including coach or flight.

The choice will be up to you.

The even better news is RoadcyclingUK.com and Sportstours have joined forces and we’ve secured 50 places, so you can book now and thus avoid the hassle. All it requires is a deposit of £100, which is fully refundable if you decide not to go. So when they announce the route on 28th October you will be able to change your mind, if it’s too hard or you just can’t make it, so there’s no catch and it’s much easier than before.

There will be a reserves list too. So should you be over the initial 50, don’t despair, you may still be a lucky winner.

If you are in the first 50, you will receive confirmation from Sportstours straight away. So all you have to do is send an e-mail to [email protected] and place ‘RCUK/SPORTSTOURS’ in the subject line.

Take a look at their website too, especially if you fancy a training camp to get fit for 2005! www.sportstoursinternational.co.uk