AFTER overindulging during the Christmas period, many people's New Year's resolution is to get in shape but keeping focused is always difficult. The Dartmoor Classic cycle ride in June is an ideal target to get you active and stay on track through the early months of the year.

Now in its fourth year, the cycle ride is a mass participation international fixture and annually attracts hundreds of entrants from throughout the UK and beyond.

Classed as a cyclo-sportive, the Dartmoor Classic is not a race, although each rider is individually timed, with gold, silver and bronze medals given to those who beat the set standards.

Everyone who completes the ride is also awarded a unique granite trophy which recognises their achievement in conquering the demanding terrain.

The event's chief organiser, Ken Robertson, said: 'This is truly a fantastic community event which now attracts a very wide range of ages and abilities.

'We get young and not-so-young riders on utility bikes right through to professionals with state-of-the-art racing machines having a go.

'From those in their late teens to senior citizens, and everything in-between, all lining up together at the start, it's a great celebration of cycling for all.'

The 65-mile route takes riders from Newton Abbot to Princetown and back and there is a 40-mile additional loop for the more experienced riders and those seeking a longer challenge.

A feeding station at Princetown will provide free energy products and sports drinks, while further support will include route marshals, mechanical backup, paramedics, direction signs and a detailed route card.

The popularity of the event is already well established, with almost half of the 2,000 places already filled, including entries from the USA and mainland Europe.

The Dartmoor Classic cycle ride takes place on June 27, and with over five months to go, there is still plenty of time for those with no experience to plan a gradual build-up to the event.

Details of how to enter and prepare can be found on http://www.dartmoorclassic.co.uk">www.dartmoorclassic.co.uk