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Use the E-Brevet button to enter via AUK |
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The alternative name hints how much more difficult the event is as a solo event. Assuredly a ride for the experienced randonneur. The normal control point pampering of the calendar event is gone. You are on your own. Just you to find food & drink, to find rest & recuperation, to find the way, to be the mechanic. Day and Night. No wheel to follow, none to buck up your spirits when you are cold and lonely in the darkness of night, drenched to the bone and shivering: alone. The required points to pass through ensure the distance completed and the height accrued. Providing the designated proof of passage on the E-Brevet for validation is your responsibility. There is much climbing of hills to be done and many descents to survive; a plethora of country lanes to navigate, during the daylight, and during the hours of darkness as one's mind plays tricks and errors creep in. The need for concentration and application is for the full duration of the event. Pace yourself. Absorb the ambience of the carefully crafted selections from my 'back yard'. The shires' road surfaces, so long in mild decay are akin to bridle-ways. Expect potholes and ruts everywhere as the patchwork of road repairs, oft temporary, continue to deteriorate unabated. Gravel and field wash will be something to look out for. Tussocks as a central reservation will be a common sight. Select wheels, tyres and gearing with all due care. Lights: be visible: ensure that you are able to see clearly in twilight and full night. Best know where you are going before you start! Prepare steadfastly by reading the route sheet in conjunction with the map. Become familiar with the wider area, and make notes to aide-mémoire. Riders who bemoan the lack of incremental distances on the route sheet may want to write them on at this stage. Prepare also a DNF strategy. It is not inconceivable that you may have to abandon; study of the map will familiarise the position of train stations and other possible get-outs (hotels/ hospitals/ towns/ repair shops etc). Do all you can to prevent mishaps: obey the rules of the road: ensure your machine is in a roadworthy condition. Leave nothing to chance - cables fray - rims thin - chains stretch - sprockets bend - brakes completely wear away - nuts & bolts unscrew – be meticulous. All done? Good. Now you are ready to enjoy being a randonneur in Wessex! |
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