Route Sheet (updated 11-04-2011)

 

The CommuniCat route is challenging with 900m of total ascent, so is ideal for aspiring community and leisure cyclists  who want to raise funds for Charity, OR for a cyclist new to the world of Sportives. 

 

  

Leave HQ after the MagnifiCat and InterCat riders, and there is a short 10% climb to get you on your way to your event challenge of Walbury Hill [steep and hard, but doable with the right gearing, fitness and determination]. Enjoy your victory and the views at the top, before a fantastic steep then valley descent to Combe, the point where the route splits from the 81 and 126 mile riders. Instead of a climb, the 51 mile route continue along the beautiful Bourne and Test Valley to St Mary Bourne, where Emma and Caroline [water station support volunteers these past 5 years] will welcome you with smiles, water, bananas and cake.

 

You will need to be refreshed as the route starts the get tough again, meandering over 'lumpy' hills to Overton, then you will be faced with a endurance drag 3 mile climb to Hannington Village.  Remind yourself of you personal goals as you dig in deep to get to the top and welcome provided by our village cycling club volunteers at the village hall.  A welcome cup of tea, with some top-up energy  for those in need, is there in request.  Otherwise be supported by energy drink and banana for the final leg back to HQ.

 

A wicked short climb over White Hill is followed by a great descent to Kingsclere. Use the next section for a welcome recovery and try to spin any lactic acid out of your legs. At 41miles greet the wall of Ashford Hill. Don’t falter or you just might have to take a step on the crown of the bend! The serious climbing is now behind you.

Take encouragement as you pass through Brimpton and join the perimeter road to Greenham Common. The finish is not far way. Have a glow of achievement as you go down the 10% descent and final approach to Newbury Racecourse. Re-enter the grounds to be greeted by the welcome back ATC volunteer team to cross the line for a grandstand finish.

A truly magnificant achievement [hence our event name 'Magnificat']. So, let pain and tiredness disappear as you reflect on your success, enjoying a cyclists menu of food ... and maybe even a beer, at the race-course cafeteria bar. Celebrate - you deserve to!

 

 

 

 

 

Stages

Route Support

 

Control / Station	Distance miles	Bike Support	Feed Control	Torq energy / Water Station
Racecourse HQ	0	Yes	Yes	Yes
St Mary Bourne	23			Yes
Hannington	34		Top-up	Yes
Racecourse HQ	51	Yes	Yes	Yes