The MagnifiCat is a truly classic challenge bringing together, the rolling Hampshire countryside, classic climbs and the South Downs into a formidable challenge for experienced and motivated cyclists. There are a total of nine major hills, and 2800m of climbing.

 

It starts with a short'n sharp 10% to get you on your way and ready, 10 miles later, to tackle  the triple climb combination of Walbury (20%), Linkenholt (10%), and Conholt (14%) Hills. This is followed by a superb glide descent past Andover and down to Stockbridge. Enjoy the rolling countryside to the first main Control at Sparsholt.

 

The 2nd stage is over the South Downs and will be a serious test for any cyclist, as it combines both Old Winchester Hill and Stoner Hill before you reach the new second main Control at Four Marks Village Hall.

 

The final stage starts with testing Hampshire climbs and descents to Farleigh Wallop. A quick skirt around Basingstoke, then onto an endurance drag climb to Hannington village, where the village hall facilities provides a welcome respite with seating area, water plus 'top-up' food , and even hot tea, to help keep those pedals and tired legs turning for the final push home. You then go up and over the White Hill of Kingsclere and a lovely fast flat section, before heading onto Ashford Hill and Brimpton.  Last 3 miles take you to Greenham Common, along the perimeter fence, one final downhill and you then re-enter for a grandstand finish at Newbury Racecourse.  Well done - the course is tough! 

 

 

Stages

Route Support

 

Control / Station	Distance miles	Bike Support	Feed Control	Torq energy / Water Station
Racecourse HQ	0	Yes	Yes	Yes
Abbotts Ann	26			Yes
Sparsholt	38	Yes	Yes	Yes
Warnford	58			Yes
Four Marks	80	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hannington	107		Top-up	Yes
Racecourse HQ	126	Yes	Yes	Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Profile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  “I just wanted to say thank you for organising a great event. You set the bar for all other cyclosportives and I really do hope they follow your lead. Everything from the route (I did the 126mile challenge) to the plentiful drinks and help from the people at the stops and the emergency services on route were amazing. The day had a good positive atmosphere about it and now I’m off the bike and at work the next day I have a large amount of retrospective enjoyment.”  Neil