Horseshoe Grimpeur
A non-competitive cycling challenge over 109km and climbing 2600 metres.Sunday, 25 April 2010
Valle Crucis Abbey, Llangollen
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Update : 26 February 2010The start has moved to Valle Crucis Abbey.I have arranged with Abbey Farm that the event will start outside Valle Crucis Abbey. The Abbey is approximately 1.5km closer to the foot of the Horseshoe Pass and the total route distance is therefore reduced to 109km but with no less climbing. Parking will be at the Abbey Farm Campsite and we have use of their toilet and shower facilties. A hilly ride to test your climbing legs. Serving up such treats as Pentre-llyn-cymmer, Bwlch Penbarras, Minera (Esclusham) Mountain and, of course, the Horseshoe Pass, both old and new, with a summit finish at the Ponderosa. The ride is quite demanding, climbing a total of 2600 metres, with climbs spaced throughout the length of the route. But you will be rewarded with great views over the surrounding countryside. Many of the ascents are steep; some averaging 15% and over. The maximum gradient is around 25%, although it's said that the Bwlch Penbarras hairpin is 30% if you take it tight. Low gearing is therefore advised (I will be using a triple). This is a non-competitive cycling event on public roads. It is not a race or trial of speed. The objective is to complete the course within the time limit of 7 hours 30 minutes (equivalent to an average speed of 14kmh-1 or 9mph). Time is recorded from when you start until you finish. Times will be published on this website. This is a basic event with no route marking and no support on the route. It is a cross-over between cyclosport and audax. To keep costs down, the route is not signed or marshalled. But:
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