Major domestic event

As you progress you may want to take on a challenge closer to home before hopping across the channel and none come as tough as the Fred Whitton sportive held in May in the Lake District each year. Although it may not have the very long ascents that the Alps, Pyrenees and Dolomites can boast don’t let that fool you into thinking it’ll be a walk in the park.

The Fred’s 112 mile circuit featuring Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott and Wrynose has no less than 4,000 metres of elevation so is a serious test and, in some respect, one that rivals a number of the tougher european events so is the perfect preparation for mind, body and machine.