James Whiting of Chavenage Cycling Events reports on the first Chavenage Cycle Challenge sportive.
On Sunday 3 August cyclists arrived at the beautiful Chavenage House for the first of many 'Chavenage Cycle Challenge' events.
After the torrential rain of Saturday the organisers and cyclists alike were pleased to see the sun shine on the unique start setting, whilst riders enjoyed a freshly brewed coffee from the vintage-styled Veloton Coffee van. Riders had the choice of the 40 mile 'Cromwell Stroller' or, for those looking for more of a challenge, the aptly named 80-mile 'Chavenage Challenge'.
We were delighted to see cyclists of all ages and abilities sign up to this new event. Chavenage Challenge Sportive catered for riders of all types of bicycles and challenges, with lycra-clad, carbon bike riders looking for PBs, to a gentleman completing 40 miles on a Brompton and a lady completing the 80-mile route on a traditional town bike.
Riders set out from the picturesque Elizabethan Manor House through the iconic avenue, which is steeped in history - once a road for horse and carriage and now the beautiful start for the unique Chavenage Challenge Sportive.
All riders followed the same route for the first 20 miles, passing through a mixture of exquisite country lanes, sweeping descents and challenging climbs including the local legend, the 'W' or 'The Ladder', which boasts hairpins resembling the climbs of the Pyrenees. The cyclists enjoyed this challenge immensely, whether it was the first time they had conquered it or if they were attempting a personal best.
From here, the route proceeded across Minchinhampton Common, providing an opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings alongside the cattle that graze freely during the summer months. From the highland that is the common, the route dropped down, following the beautiful Cotswold lanes to the first feeding station, located in the small village of Daglingworth. Here the riders enjoyed a variety of refreshments and the chance to have a conversation with a Sport Nutritionist for any advice on how best to fuel their training or Sportive riding.
From here the route split, with the short route following the picturesque lanes along the valley before tackling another steep climb. The views through this part of the Cotswolds are second to none and many of the riders reported how nice it was to see the countryside in all its glory on a beautiful summer's day.
The long route left the feed station, climbing out of Daglingworth to a beautiful plateau with breathtaking views of the famous Cotswold countryside before cycling through yet another lovely avenue of trees. The 80-mile route took the riders through the extremely famous village of Bibury, described by William Morris as 'the most beautiful village in England'. From here, riders wound their way through the well-renowned Cotswold Water Park and into Cricklade, another historic town. Small bridges, quiet scenic lanes and plenty of sun was the order of the lead up to the second feeding station in Minety.
The final 20 miles saw the cyclists come through Chavenage Estate's neighbouring town, Tetbury, where our coffee providers, Veloton, have their well-renowned coffee and cycle shop. It was the avenue once more as the riders clocked up their 80 miles and turned into the striking main entrance of Chavenage House, to be greeted by the organiser and professional cyclist James Lowsley-Williams, also known as Hank in the cycling world.
Local expert cycle coach Mike Edwards of Bibo Bike Coaching was on hand throughout the day in the follow car, providing participants with assistance should they have any mechanical issues.
The tired and hungry riders were treated to a delightful summer buffet, freshly prepared by Chavenage's professional chef, Joanna Gouriet. This rewarding end to the day was enhanced by an ice cream on the lawn, provided by 'The Rolling Box' serving local Winstones ice cream. The family at Chavenage offered tours of the house at a reduced price to riders, offering some interesting history to complement this great event. Others opted to enjoy coffee and cakes from Veloton whilst they enjoyed the picturesque gardens.
We would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to making a memorable first event, and we thoroughly look forward to seeing you next year!
Chavenage Cycle Events has plans for more events in the future. If you are interested you can keep yourself updated by visiting our page: https://www.facebook.com/chavenagecycleevents or following us on Twitter.
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