The Hell of the North Cotswolds sportive will return on Sunday April 14 2013 for the 29th year.
Some 1,100 riders rolled out last year, raising £3,000 for charity from a mass participation ride staged for the first time in 1984.
It has been postponed only twice in nearly 30 years; once, due to heavy snow, and a second time, in 2001, following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease.
The event was founded by the late Pat Smith and Tim Groom, who had ridden the Paris-Roubaix sportive and wanted to bring the experience to the Cotswolds. It is now staged by Winchcombe CC and Cheltenham & County CC.
Two routes will be offered, one of 50km and another of 100km, with all riders set to roll out of Winchcombe at 9am.
Both routes will be signposted, and riders supplied with a printed map and the option to receive a GPS route by email.
Organisers say a “classic route” of tarmac roads, bridleways, and “everything from rocky single track to rutted, possibly muddy tracks” will be included in the routes.
Helmets are compulsory. Refreshments will be offered at the half-way stage. Entries must be made in advance and will be capped at 1,200 riders.
Entry costs £15 for adults, and £6 for riders aged under 18 on April 14 2013. Marin will sponsor a prize draw for junior riders.
Online entry opens at midday on Saturday January 5 2013.
