119km, 1600m climbing
The really special thing about this sportive wasn’t the sponsorship by Maserati (lots of beautiful cars to gape at) nor the fact that the feed stations included genuine yorkshire puds, nor the fantastic scenery of the Yorkshire Moors. Rather it was the fact that much of the sportive route was on the very roads that would be closed for the final stage of the professional race just a few hours later that day and this included the opportunity for us to ride in along the pro finish on the promenade. This did mean it was an early start, 6:30am, to ensure we were off the course in time.
The route was pleasantly challenging – several categorised climbs including a timed section up Harwood Dale climb where you got to compare yourself against a time set by David Millar. From the route profile, the latter third of the ride looked much more benign, but out away from the Moors, we had to face our old East Anglian foe, the winds, as the route was more exposed here. They even managed to throw in a cobbles section rising up from Filey beach. The last 10k was the exact route marked out for the professionals and it was a treat to climb up the last ascent to Oliver’s Mount and then whizz down past the event marshalls to finish along the seafront, through the Flame Rouge and on to the line. As for the London Etape, they provded a podium for those necessary post-ride souvenir photos.
Would I do it again in 2017? I’ve already signed up. A very enjoyable and well run event, and worth a weekend away, and a decent medal to go with it.
Sarah Kelman
