« on: 04 July, 2023, 09:23:47 am »
EVENT DESCRIPTION
New for 2024 a 422k Severn Bridge Series GOLD GRIMPEUR AAA event.
A Bare-Bones Audax Event taking you to Bude and back.
400km ride starting from Bristol exploring a few seaside towns and a fair few hills in the Quantock and also Exmoor National Park.
11pm start with free food and refreshments from my home beforehand.
Head off down along a fairly flat section to Bridgwater for your first stop before taking on your first big climb in the Quantock Hills.
Next down to Bude on rolling terrain to take in the Sea air and views.
Next along the Tarka Trail along the side of the River Taw National Cycle Network path from Bideford to Barnstaple where you will stop to refuel.
Next more climbing in the Exmoor National Park via Dunkery Beacon to take in great Sea views before heading through Duster with views of the Castle before you are into Watchet via the old Mineral Railway Line.
Over the Quantock Hills for a 2nd time with its monster climb - Crowcombe Combe and its 25% gradient section that will probably have you walking. Featured in the 100 Greatest Climbs Book it's a tough one for sure.
Next back to Bridgwater for a refuel and then a flattish route to yet another seaside town Clevedon before heading back to base via the 'B Roads' for yet more free food, refreshments and if needed a shower.
The route has some Short 'A Road' sections (mainly for the night parts of your ride) as well as long sections of quiet 'B Roads' and a good dose of Lanes added to the mix.
The ride also allows you to explore the West Somerset Railway Line at Washford, Watchet & Stogumber where there is the option of a cafe stop if needed.
Entry on the Line (EOL) is possible - £3 surcharge, payment by card or cash.
Logged
Season 1 - 211 AAA Points, 120 Club points, PBP 72h, ISR, Welsh SR, Easter Arrow, Hyper Rand, AAA Champion, ACB Team and CTC champions
