NEARLY 3,000 cyclists gathered to take part in the tenth anniversary run of the Dartmoor Classic Sportive, one of Britain’s biggest, and best loved open-road cycling challenges.

Organised and run by the Mid-Devon Cycling Club, the Dartmoor Classic, has three route options, catering for cyclists of all abilities. The Grande is the toughest route, covering a gruelling 107 miles; the Medio, is the middle distance option at 67 miles and the Piccolo, designed for those new to endurance cycling, covers 35 miles.

Such is the popularity of the Dartmoor Classic, for the past three years, all places have sold out within 24 hours of the entry system opening. While primarily a local event, it does attract cyclists from around the world. This year was no exception, with visitors taking part from South Africa, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, China, Germany, France, Guernsey, Ireland, Denmark, Poland, Thailand, and the USA (New York). There was of course, plenty of support from local cycling clubs, including a number from the Tavistock Wheelers.

Age and gender have also proved to be no limits for the Classic cyclist. This year 24 participants were over the age of 70 years, with the eldest, John Tedbury from Dawlish, aged 86. The eldest female participant was 71 years and the youngest riders were 13 years. Over 28% of participants this year were women.

The first wave of 200 Grande riders set off on their epic challenge from Newton Abbot Racecourse at 6am, with subsequent waves started at ten minute intervals, with all riders on their way to Dartmoor by 9am. For those taking part in Medio and Grande routes there was an additional ’hill climb’ challenge on a closed-road section at Beckaford (between Manaton and Haytor Vale). This challenge was to see which male and female could climb the hill fastest. The King of Mountain was won by Mark Puddicombe of Sidmouth in 7 mins 04 seconds. The Queen of the Mountain was won by Becky Cornwell of Barnstaple in 9 mins 10 seconds.

On returning to Newton Abbot Racecourse, participants cycled triumphantly through the finish gantry to the sound of clapping and cheers from friends, family, and fellow cyclists to receive their well earned finishers’ medal.