• The Challenge

    THE ROUTES

    All routes with exception of the 60/80 mile route will  set off  at 10 am on Sunday 29th August 2010 from Old Hall Country Club carpark. The 60 and 80 mile route will set off at 09.30am.

    Take your pick from four rural, picturesque routes through the Cheshire/North Wales countryside starting and finishing at:

    Old Hall Country Club and Spa , Aldford Road, Huntington, Chester CH3 6EA

    There is ample parking at the club and changing facilities.  Drinks and energy bars will be available.

    All events will finish back at The Old Hall Country Club and Spa where changing and shower facilities will be available.

    Route 1 – 12.5 miles

    This is a short circular route introduced for those who don’t feel up to the longer distances but who want to ride back to the main finish.  After turning right out of Old Hall Country Club the route will take you through attractive Cheshire countryside and villages including Churton, Aldford, Bruera, Saighton and back towards the finish at Old Hall Country Club.

    Route 2 – 25 miles

    This longer route will be two circuits of the 12.5 mile route.  There will be a refreshment stop at the half way point at Old Hall Country Club and Spa after the first circuit.  Riders on this route will have the chance to better their time on the second lap!

    Route 3 – 60 miles

    This is a more demanding circular route including some tough hills on route (more for the experienced rider), passing through some beautiful scenery and picturesque villages and vistas including Churton, Shocklach,, Duckington, Hart Hill, Beeston, Huxley, around Utkinton, Cotebrook, Willington and onto Kelsall, then heading back through Oscroft, Waverton and Saighton to the finish/start point at Old Hall Country Club & Spa

    Route 4 - 80 Miles

     This route is an extension of the 60 mile circuit and with a total ascent of 870m, is aimed at more experienced riders who want to push themselves that little bit more.   After following the 60 mile circuit for 40 miles, just before Kelsall the route follows a 20 mile loop over the beautiful Manley and Frodsham hills, around Kingsley, Acton Bridge, Norley and back through Hatchmere and Delamere Forest into Kelsall where it then picks up the 60 mile route once again for the final 20 miles back to the start/finish at Old Hall Country Club & Spar.

     Chester Challenge -12 and 25 mile route

    Chester Challenge -60 and 80 mile route 

    REFRESHMENTS

    There will be refreshment points on route at which you will be able to purchase cold or hot drinks, food, sandwiches, and snacks.

    NB.  Old Hall Country Club and Spa will be providing complimentary coffee/tea and cookies before and after the event for all riders.

    1. Old Hall Country Club (accessible to 12.5 and 25 mile Route)

    2. Summertrees Farm, Tirley Lane, Kelsall, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0PF (accessible to the 60 & 80 mile routes only)

    Safety Points

    The route throughout will be marked by Chester Challenge signs and marshalled by identified officials at certain points. For your own safety and that of other riders, please obey instructions given.

    Please do not bring any other vehicles on to the course as this will pose a threat to other cyclists and road users. Please note that if you deviate from the official route you will not be covered by the event support services.

    Please pay care and attention at all times, observe the Highway Code and act responsibly.

    1. You must be 16 years of age on the day of the ride to participate. (younger riders can be accepted under the supervision of an Adult rider who takes full responsibility for their safety).
    2. Participants will be responsible for the roadworthiness of their own cycle. It is recommended that you get your bike serviced before the event day
    3. You must obey all Highway Code Rules. You are requested to ride in single file where appropriate and no more than 2 abreast at any time. Please be aware of your fellow cyclists and other traffic. Please indicate your intention to stop or change direction. Use a bell to warn others of your presence
    4. You must stop at all red traffic lights and stop signs.  Please slow down when approaching roundabouts and junctions and be prepared to stop – you must give way to other traffic in accordance with the Highway Code.
    5. Obey all instructions given by the marshalls and other event officials.
    6. You may not deviate from the official route.  From start to finish there will be signage marking the route.  Direction will be indicated by signs.  Signs will also indicate when you are approaching a refreshment stop.  All volunteers and staff involved in the event will be clearly identifiable.  It is the responsibility of each participant to take the correct course.  Maps and route directions will be provided on entry.
    7. While it is not mandatory we strongly suggest all participants wear a safety-approved cycling helmet. We recommend cycle helmets complying with ANSI Z90/4 or SNELL standards. Cycling shoes, shorts and jerseys are also recommended.   Bring sufficient layers and wearing bright coloured visable clothing is advisable to boost motorist awareness. All riders are recommended to carry 2 drink bottles, an energy bar or similar snack, tools 2 replacement inner tubes and suitable wet weather clothing. We also advise that riders carry I/D and a small amount of money. If it is a hot day it is also recommended to bring sun block with you.
    8. You may not use your mobile phone while riding. You must stop at the side of the road if you need to make or receive a call.
    9. Rider’s numbers, issued at registration, must be displayed on the front of shirts until completion of the ride.
    10. The Chester Challenge organisation reserves the right to terminate an individual’s ride on health and safety grounds. The ride will take place regardless of bad weather and will only be cancelled, re-routed or stopped for reasons of safety. Entry fees, however, are not refundable. If you are worried about your health, please check with your doctor prior to this event

      11. No participant (other than those on tandems) may take food or drink from anyone whilst on the move. If you need food or drink, you must stop to receive it.