Now in its fourth year, Keswick Mountain Festival, which is being held between19-23 May 2010 and is jointly sponsored by Cumbria Tourism and Ordnance Survey, has come a new challenge in the shape of a cyclosportive ride open to 400 riders who will climb in both directions three of the most spectacular Lakeland passes around Keswick.
The Keswick Mountain Festival Sportive, to be held on Saturday 22 May 2010, has three levels of difficulty:
- The big one – This route takes the rider up Whinlatter, Newlands and Honister passes twice, each time from different directions. It covers 105 kilometres (65 miles) and climbs 3,140 metres (10,300 feet).
- The medium one – this route includes four climbs to a total of 2,700 metres (8, 860 feet) and over 90 kilometres (56 miles) of road.
- The little one – This route covers 46 kilometres (28 miles) and two big climbs of 1,290 metres in total (4,230 feet).
All competitors will start and finish at Crow Park beside Derwentwater at the Festival’s Adventure Base. Here competitors and spectators can enjoy the themed outdoor adventure areas of hike, bike, climb, triathlon and paddle.
Lucy Bennett, Director, Keswick Mountain Festival, said: “We want people to have fun and we’re making the most of the three high passes so everyone who competes can enjoy the spectacular views. There should be something for everyone, whether this is your first Sportive or if you’re a seasoned competitor.”
Ian Mulvey of Be Challenged, who masterminded the Sportive on behalf of Keswick Mountain Festival, said: “These are really demanding routes with little time to recover between the climbs up the passes. We’re hoping those who can’t tackle the big one will have a go at one of the two smaller ones. No matter what level you try, it will be a tough challenge.”
Entry for the Sportive is priced at £30 and for that you’ll get: electronic timing, feed stations, maps and route cards, mechanical support, a meal voucher, sports nutrition and a finisher’s memento.
Enter online at www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk
