A new cycling event to challenge the most committed riders pedals off in Aylesbury next month.
Named The Sharpener, the 60-mile route across the best back roads in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire will involve steep climbs.
Andy Coles, one of the event organisers, said: “We’re not going to deny there are hills involved and that the ride will be challenging, but as they say, what goes up must come down... and there are also some long sections of beautiful rolling countryside to be enjoyed en route.”
Florence Nightingale Hospice has teamed up with Allezsportives.co.uk and British Cycling for the event which starts and ends at Haddenham Junior School in a single loop course on Sunday, May 5.
Karen Shardlow, development and events manager, said: “Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity is very excited about being part of this brand new local cycling event as it’s something the charity has been looking to introduce to our calendar of events for a while.
“This fantastic challenge offers local people who love cycling the opportunity to enjoy taking on a home-based cycling experience, with a percentage of your entry fee donated to the hospice, or for some, perhaps the challenge will be greater so you may like to get family and friends to sponsor you in your efforts – with money raised going to the hospice – the choice is yours.”
To register and to view the Sharpener route, visit www.allezsportives.co.uk. Entry costs £20 (£17 British Cycling) in advance, £25 on the day. Registration will start at 7.45am. Cyclists will be provided with help on the day including individual chipped timing, mechanical support, a mid-point refreshment station and ‘broom wagon’ supplied by 3B – to sweep up any broken and weary riders who are unable to make it to the finish line.