There are no entry qualifications, other than a minimum age requirement for unaccompanied riders of 18 years. Riders and their bikes are expected to arrive at the start in a condition that should enable them to complete the course. All riders are advised to wear a properly fitting helmet that conforms to current safety standards. The organisers will not sanction the start of any rider deemed to pose an undue risk to themselves or to other riders. Tandem entries are welcome (pay per rider). Sorry, no trikes.

START

We suggest that you allow 10 mins from exiting the M3 (either Junction 9 or Junction 10) to reach Perins School, New Alresford, SO24 9BS, and to park. There is on-site parking, and overflow parking close by. Marshals will be on hand to guide. Registration/Information and refreshments are in the Main Hall.

Changing and shower facilities (should you require them) are on site.

When registered and ready, riders should make their way to the start. The starting window will be 8.00 - 9.30 a.m.

PREPARATION

Road surfaces on the route are generally very good. There are however, some stretches, particularly on the Downs, where there is grit on the road. Therefore, you are advised to use tyres with anti-puncture layering and a minimum width of 23mm.

Many riders have discovered to their cost that they were running on tyres that were too light for the conditions. In wet conditions, parts of the course may experience severe run-on of grit, flints, and thorns If in doubt, use thicker tread tyres.

Kit list: for the less experienced, we recommend a multi-tool, a pair of tyre levers, 2 spare inners (new), pump (possibly mini variety), 2 bottles (500ml), tube of Deep-Freeze gel or similar for those aching back and neck muscles, and a mobile phone.

Cycle computer: remember we're thinking in miles for this event.

All riders must wear a helmet in order to be covered by the event insurance, and must carry some form of identification.

Gearing: No absolute need for Compact or Triple chainrings, though do use them if you've got them - a 42 inner ring should be adequate for the steepest hills.

FOOD & DRINK

You are advised to start with your pockets full of your own preferred energy food.

Feed stations are located at points to be notified around the course:

There are cafe facilities at event HQ

SAFETY AND RISK ASSESSMENT

The course runs counter-clockwise to maximise the proportion of safe left turns. It generally experiences very light traffic. This in itself, however, poses a certain risk, as both drivers and riders tend not to expect to encounter other traffic. Riders must at all times comply with Road Traffic laws and the Highway Code, taking special care at junctions, especially isolated crossroads. Junctions will not normally be marshalled.

The course features a number of narrow decents. Beware of grit on bends, also wildlife, e.g. pheasants and rabbits (hopefully nothing bigger).

Note the following:

Traffic lights at Twyford.  Do not jump these lights.

Right turn onto B3035 (to Corhampton)

Cross A32 (Meon Valley) at Exton towards Beacon Hill

Rt turn onto A30 at Chilbolton Down for short section on same.

This event is not classified as a race or as a competitive event. The organiser and the event officials are covered against public liability claims from third parties.

SIGNAGE

The routes are signed with black-on-yellow Correx arrow boards (see photo, top-left). Every change of direction should be indicated by one or more arrows. Riders are urged to familiarise themselves with the distinctive arrow boards (owned by the Dark Blue Cycling Club, and also used for the Circuit of the Cotswolds).

FINISH

Start and Finish will be at Perins School, New Alresford, SO24 9BS. Please follow the instructions of officials at the Start/Finish.

PHOTOS

Our event photographer will be Phil O'Connor, contracted to provide British Cycling with images from the Beijing Olympics.