The Wight Riviera Sportive

A new event for 2012 from the Southern Sportive team and the first to feature their Sportive Avantage format which sees the event begin with a mass start and 25km closed roads loop before riders head off to complete the rest of the sportive. A choice of 3 route options are available: Full - 95 miles (154km) with a height gain of 2219m Mid - 71 miles (116km) with a height gain of 1659m Short - 38 miles (62km) with a height gain of 914m The event starts with the Avant loop, a 25km closed roads circuit that passes back through the start. By offering a closed road starting loop of approx 25km (called the Avant loop), the sportive provides the excitement and spectacle of a great sporting event. The loop passes back to the start area before sending riders back out and onto the open road part of the sportive, allowing the opening loop to be taken on as a standalone challenge for for those wanting a shorter and traffic free ride. The rolling road closure also allows the sportive to feature the excitement of a proper mass start, and an atmosphere normally only associated with marathon running. The result is an event that provides a friendly format with the atmosphere and excitement that has equal appeal for rider and spectator. Once out on the open road sections of the sportive, the course moves onto the tranquil roads of the wider Island; very few roads on the Isle of Wight could ever be described as 'busy', and as it winds up and down the Islands chains of hills, the constantly changing scenery is quite breathtaking. Low, leafy valleys pass through classic English villages, along airy country lanes between the hedgerows and up onto high vantage points up on the downs, with sweeping sea views across the Island and beyond!