Sportive help.

johnnyc71

My first post in the Sportve section!

I currently cycle 100 - 140 miles per week. My longest single ride is 40 miles, at an average speed of 14.5mph.

I'm hoping to take part in some sportives or audax events during 2009 - can anyone recommend any events in the midlands area?

And

Will I be up to the task? Or should I just keep on increasing the distance I cycle?

Gary D

I don't know much about Audaxes, but the Sportive season goes a bit quiet until March next year.
A good one to start with in the Midlands would be The Mad March Hare:

http://www.madmarchharesportive.co.uk/index.php

About 60 miles. Mostly flattish but with one b*itch of a hill just before halfway :twisted: I know - I rode up it on Saturday!! :shock: :shock:

Another one a couple of weeks later is the Epic Cycles Spring Challenge. Only 50 miles or so but VERY hilly. I did it last year as my first sportive and found it tough but I definitely don't regret doing it - I will be doing it again this year now I am a little bit fitter :oops: .

http://www.epic-cycles.co.uk/challenge.htm

With the distances you are doing, and at that average speed, you will be fine. Probably wouldn't hurt to try and do a 50-60 mile ride beforehand and you will be OK. Your weekly mileage is considerably more than I manage

Hope this helps,
Gary.

PS Where abouts are you in the Midlands?

johnnyc71

Thanks for that Gary - useful info. I'm live in East Birmingham - so must of my cycling is around Coleshill, Maxstoke, Meriden ect.

I think I'll need to prep myself for those hills :shock: But I'm now five stone lighter than I was 23 months ago - those hills should be getting easier!!!

davidmiller

Last year I did a good sportive called "Squire and Spires" based around Northamptonshire. It was really good. Can't see any details on this years event yet but watch out for it.

David

johnnyc71

Will do David - cheers.

Gary D

johnnyc71 wrote:

Thanks for that Gary - useful info. I'm live in East Birmingham - so must of my cycling is around Coleshill, Maxstoke, Meriden ect.

I know that area well

I used to go to secondary school in Coleshill and lived in Water Orton for a few years.

If I remember, there are some decent hills around there if you go and look for them

Good luck!
Gary.

johnnyc71

I used to dread hills, but I've got to the stage where I've deluded myself that I actually enoy them.

I can often be seen blazing up the hills at an impressive 8 - 12 mph :shock: I have a relaxed climbing pace, since my body has an overpowering desire to avoid pain, discomfort and suffering!

johnnyc71

I've taken the plunge and entered the The Mad March Hare Sportive. Wish me luck!

Gary D

Good Luck!

I will hopefully see you there. I have entered, but just need to sort out childcare arrangements. :shock:

Gary.

Anonymous

Good on you Johnny...

That will be a great enrty for the sportive scene...it will also give confidence for further events...as I'm sure it will only be your first step in the 'major suffering' staircase....

P.s Losing 5 stone?....now THATS whats really great about cycling...it can give a new lease of life...and in doing so gives you the opportunity to ride through all the stunning area's of our Island....

nickwill

I reckon you'll be fine. If there is a local club or a group you could get out with , it would help. Group riding makes sportives easier.
Keep up the good work!

johnnyc71

Thanks for the support - I appreciate it. Quite exciting to have a target to aim for.

I was in touch with Beacon RCC last night - planning on going on a club run with them and seeing what happens!

pprince

johnnyc71 wrote:

I've taken the plunge and entered the The Mad March Hare Sportive. Wish me luck!

Don't worry, I'll look after you

Paul Prince
Mad March Hare Organiser