NOW GO FOR IT!
Now you can put our training advice and top tips to the test with a shot at some of the best events for beginners
EVANS RIDE IT
Organised throughout the year and across the country, you’re sure to find a Ride It event to suit you. Each one offers a range of distances, whether you’re taking part for fun or planning to hit that all-important distance goal. evanscycles.com
RIDELONDON-SURREY 46
29 July 2017 This event was held for the first time in 2016 and is a perfect introduction to sportives. The ride comprises a 46-mile route on traffic-free roads, beginning at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in east London and following the same route as the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 for the first 27 miles before taking a short cut that links up with the last 17 miles through London to finish in The Mall. prudentialridelondon.co.uk
MANCHESTER 100
03 September 2017 Depending on how fit you feel, there are two 100 options to choose from – 100km or 100 miles. Starting from Wythenshawe Park, the routes follows quiet back roads where possible, with occasional dips onto cycle paths. There will be some climbing involved, but nothing that should phase a reasonably fit cyclist. The entry fee is £20, with all sponsorship raised going to the local cancer hospital, The Christie. bike-events.co.uk
PEDAL FOR SCOTLAND
10 September 2017 Now in its 19th year, the 45-mile, closed-road ride from Glasgow to Edinburgh has become a popular event; last year’s ride attracted over 6500 participants. Entry starts from £28, plus an additional £20 if you require transport for you and your bike either from Edinburgh to the start, or back to Glasgow after the ride. Refreshments and mechanical support are provided along the route. pedalforscotland.org
L’ÉTAPE LONDON
24 September 2017 Organised by Human Race and supported by Tour de France organisers, ASO, experience a touch of the Grand Tour razzmatazz in the capital city. There are three routes to choose from – 49 miles (79km), 92 miles (147km) and 117 miles (185.5km), and when you cross the line you’ll receive a text alert with your time, a finisher’s medal and enjoy some Gallic-style cheese and wine refreshment in the event village. letapeuk.co.uk