This weekend brings one of the region’s fastest growing cycling events, the organisers of Bike Bath are getting ready to welcome 1500 cyclists to the city of Bath over the weekend of 28-29 June.
Pre-reg numbers are up year on year by 35% and it is attracting riders for the 60 and 100 mile routes from all over the UK. Traditionally over 100 riders sign up on the day so it is looking highly likely that the capped target of 1500 is going to be met.
All the routes have been assessed, approved and locations of the feed-stations have been set. Richard Jewitt, who is part of the route assessment team, said:
“The 100 and 60 mile routes take in some stunning scenery, the first half of these routes are certainly challenging and hard in places, however the second half has a completely different feel and the riders will have a chance to enjoy some lovely countryside on safe lanes.”
All routes start and finish at the Rec Ground in the centre of Bath - the longer routes on Saturday head out towards Bristol and Chew Magna and onto the challenges of Burrington Combe and Cheddar Gorge, the routes then wind through the countryside to Mells and Horningsham and head back via Rode and Bradford-on-Avon before a fast and scenic ride home via the Two Tunnels.
On Sunday the routes head out of Bath via Kingsdown and out through Corsham before heading out into some of the picturesque Cotswold Villages. There are also less challenging routes of 20 miles on the Saturday and 30 miles on the Sunday. And of course for those wanting to push themselves the ‘Bath Gladiator’ - 200 miles over the two days!
As well as some great routes, riders can expect some incredible free food at the various feed-stations where local and national food and drink suppliers are supporting the event. Katie Robbins, who sources product for Bike Bath, says,
“It’s incredible the support we receive from businesses, we are now in our third year and riders who have previously ridden with us always appreciate the amazing feed stations – we’ve set ourselves quite a challenge to produce these feed stations year on year, so I am delighted with the support we have received for 2014 and riders can once again be fully fuelled on their chosen cycling challenge.”
Katie goes on to say, “If you are taking part in Bike Bath 2014 then there is no need to bring any food with you as there will be plenty during and after the rides.”
Local businesses such as Bradley’s Juice, Sally Lunns, Bath Soft Cheese Company, Paxton and Whitfield, Lovett Pies, Barber’s Cheddar Cheese and Bath Bakery to name but a few are confirmed as well as national suppliers, Tyrrells Crisps, Walkers Shortbread, Fyffes Bananas and energy drinks from Scheckter’s and 9Bar, so a feast will be waiting for tiring cyclist just when they need it.
And when cyclists have completed their challenge they’ll be a chance to pick up their goody bag, enjoy some food and drink, live music and exchange tales of the hills conquered in the event village and Bath Ales marquee.
What better way to see the beautiful countryside that surrounds the wonderful city of Bath, sign up for your challenge.
Bike Bath is championed by Charles Stanley Direct and all details can be found at www.bikebath.co.uk or e-mail info@bikebath.co.uk if you would like to more information.
