The route has been planned by cyclists that regularly train in these beautiful lanes. No more than 5 miles are on A roads. There are long dragging type climbs, and a couple of steeper hills to enable riders to use a full range of gears. Wigley Orchard bank is short but steep, 18% and after 78miles riders tackle Ankerdine Hill, 17%, prior to a fast and enjoyable run back down to the HQ.
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Feed station – There will be a feed station at approx 30mile and 60 mile distance, where food and drink will be available. A track pump will be on site for any riders unfortunate enough to have suffered a puncture and need to top up their tyre PSI. In the case of very hot weather the feed / water stops will be reviewed and added or adjusted accordingly.
Route description – A riders perspective Leaving the HQ riders have a 2mile scoot along the A443 to Hallow where the route enters the quiet lanes. The riders climb through the edge of Ockeridge Wood, a little more climbing before diving down the hillside through Shelsley Beauchamp into the Teme Valley. Passing the base of the infamous motorsport venue of Shelsley Walsh Hill climb course, riders follow the undulating valley road to Tenbury Wells.
Climbing out of Tenbury and away from the Teme Valley, riders soon approach the 1st planned feed at Pudleston village Hall. Following the feed stop, riders have good opportunities to form ‘working’ groups heading to and skirting around Bodenham. A bit of a ‘pull’ towards Pencombe could see splits appear in any groups with a couple of ups and downs in quick succession. Through Stoke Lacy and head towards Bishops Frome where the route climbs to Acton Green, 2nd feed follows shortly after at Stanford Bishop, before heading into to Bromyard.
Through Bromyard High Street and head out towards Thornbury. This is a 5 mile ascent interrupted by a few downhill sections, assisting riders to get heart rate and breathing back under control. Enjoy the panoramic view of Clee Hill before diving down into the Kyre valley, as you start a steady ascent you are soon to arrive at Wigley Orchard bank. The steepest part is the 90 degree right hand bend, with a few dragging climbs you reach Clifton on Teme and can enjoy a long shallow descent to Whitbourne, whilst taking in the view of the Malverns.
After 78miles, Ankerdine Hill may prove a strain and a test of riders resolve but all will be rewarded with views across towards Worcester and a 7 mile, predominantly downhill run in to the HQ and finish.
