Enjoyed completing my first 200km AAA event. The roads leading into Castleton/Hope brought back both fond and painful memories of the peak district hills. Blessed with a welcoming easterly breeze and warm day, only slightly marred by odd spot of heavy traffic. I found the route tougher than I anticipated. Generally long consistent ascents which were quite easy to settle into a rythym, with 2 short bits of 1:6 climbs. I would recommend this event for AAA newbies.
Like to say thanks to the helpers at the 2 village hall controls and to Roy for his valuable advice of the terrain which led me to choose triple chainset setup ovet the compact.
Ps don't be afraid to ask organiser/riders details of difficult parts, before and during the ride.