Merlin Ride Sportive 2014

The 2014 Merlin Ride takes place on Sunday 29 June, with a new venue confirmed as Merlin moves to Nantgaredig Rugby Club, Nantgaredig, Carmarthenshire. Entries are on sale now and going fast. Historically the ride has had about 800 riders, however this year due to demand the allocation has been raised to 1,000.
 
New for 2014
All 4 routes have been changed, however mileage remains the same with 50, 70, 85 or 105 mile routes offered. The 70 and 105 mile routes both traverse the Brecon Beacons Black Mountain, and therefore these two routes have a different opening section to the 50 and 85 mile rides.
 
All routes start and finish on the main road that runs through Nantgaredig. This represents a significant improvement over recent years as riders will now benefit from a really flat start for the first 12 miles, while the finish misses out the significant climb past Y Polyn and the rather complicated previous finish route into the old finish area at the Gardens. This is a very welcome change and something that many riders have commented on in the past.
 
Full shower and changing facilities will be provided in the start-finish area at the rugby ground, with overnight camping also available. 
 
Now a well-established event, the Merlin Ride is going from strength to strength and the newly improved 2014 edition looks set to be the best yet.