This week saw a trip up to the Lake District to take on the Fred Whitton challenge, a 112 mile ride taking an undulating route with 11,000ft climbing including a collection of steep climbs (read – a lot of 25% gradients)
My journey on Saturday for registration went relatively smoothly and gave me enough time to get out on the bike for a saturday afternoon spin in the sun. A reminder of the stunning scenery and what a real hill feels like, perfect prep before the big day on Sunday! Afterwards, checked into Langdale YHA and spent the rest of a sunny afternoon chatting to other riders discussing bike choices, lack of training and previous horror stories.
Sunday involved a 5am start with a breakfast put on by a rather enthusiastic YHA crew serving up a spread of choices and a load of coffee to get going. 6am down at Grasmere, the weather wasn’t looking quite so great with a lot of mist and damp from overnight rain. After a bit of discussion I opted for assuming it’ll get warmer and left the wet weather kit in the car (the right choice).
The ride mainly consisted of trying to find a decent group to work with along anything flat, taking climbs at my own pace (turns out I’m quite good at the steep stuff) and trying to stay on the road during the steep downs. Got pretty lucky with the weather and after the damp start everything brightened leading to a generally dry and got day with the exception of Cold Fell (clues in the name). Also, riding in Kenilworth kit led to lots of hello’s from local clubs (Stratford and Rugby), meeting a fellow KWCCer (Kingston Wheelers) and some name drops for members of the club.
The Fred Whitton crew really know how to put on a sportive, great route, amazing choice at the feed stops, marshals looking out for you everywhere and enthusiastic support from the lake district residents made for a great day out.
Thoroughly recommend entering it next year for anyone looking for a tough but rewarding day out on the bike.
Stats:
– 112 miles
– 10,300ft climbing
– Time: 7:09:54
– 11 notable climbs (Kirkstone, Keswick, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Cold Fell, Santon Bridge, Hardknott Pass, Wrynose Pass and Blea Tarn) – all with ramps greater than 15%, several 25% and Hardknott hitting 33%!
– Smallest gear: 34:32 and needed it for Hardknott (see photo)
Author: Dave Mills
Date: 7th May 2023
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