Sportive

Five sportives to tackle before February

Start the year as you mean to go on

Sunday January 12

To kickstart proceedings, the Westerley Winter Warmer poses a tough early-season challenge in the Chilterns.

Tackling some of the area’s toughest climbs, the main 107km route takes in more than 4275ft of climbing up the likes of Freith Hill, Bledlow Ridge, Loosley Hill and Cryers Hill.

With the open road and stunning landscapes awaiting, its never too early in the season to tackle an event

Previously a club ride, the event has run since 1998, but organisers are so confident in their route they are keen to share it with the wider cycling public.

Classed as a reliability ride, both the main route, or the shorter 58km ‘lite’ version – which still includes a total of 1950ft of climbing – are the perfect way to kick off your sportive season.

Starting at the Chalfont St Peter scout hut in Buckinghamshire, start times are staggered and food and drink are supplied before and after the ride.

Entry costs £10 on the day (half-price for the shorter route) or £8/£4 in advance.

For more information visit http://www.westerley-cycling.org.uk/winter-warmer