UK cycling press and invited riders arrived early at Newbury Racecourse, the new HQ location venue for The Magnificat sponsored by Verenti Bikes, to ride the 127 mile Magnificat course. This was a rather special preview ride;
  • First opportunity for the Press to ride the Rhigos around the new and improved 127 mile MagnifiCat sportive course
  • Each cyclist was given Tracker which would live report their progress around the course.
  • See the excellent rider facilities available at Newbury Racecourse.
In addition Mavic provided neutral assistance, Torq made sure all riders had sufficient energy drinks and gels and Phil O’Connor was there to take great photos of the day. The invited riders also benefited from the team lead cyclists from North Hampshire Road Club and Cycle Club Basingstoke.
The Magnificat has created a lot of interest. There are three main rides, multi-lap ride within the grounds and schools cycling activities all taking place. The Mayor of Newbury met the cyclists and expressed his pleasure that a cycling event for the whole community was going to be taking place in Newbury. Prior to the event four primary and 4 secondary local schools have been selected to take part in a cycle safety training initiative in May run by Andy Cook Cycling.
Today was about the 127 mile MagnifiCat with 2800m of ascent and the weather condition were ideal. The first real challenge of the day was the “Scorpion Sting” – known locally as Walbury Hill, Linkenholt Hill and Conholt Hill – strong individual climbs but a tough challenge as a combination.
 After that the riders enjoyed a fast 4.5mile glide descent off the chute causeway to Weyhill and a quick skirt around Andover to head for Stockbridge and the first feed-stop at Sparsholt.
After the delicious peanut sandwiches and cakes the big challenge was going to be The South Downs. The route rolls along and with fast descents and steady climbs; it is not easy to get into a steady ride rhythm as the different sections of the Downs keep coming at you. Old Winchester Hill was a great climb - followed by a high speed descent into East Meon. There was a big surprise for those who had ridden this ride before; the change to Newbury Racecourse has moved the second food stop from Steep to Four Marks which means climb Stoner Hill before a cup of tea and a sandwich!  
 
 There was still plenty of good cycling to do before the riders arrived back at the racecourse; climbing up to Lasham gliding centre, passing several pubs on the way – very tempting! At the top of Hannington we did have a welcome break at the Vine PH. This will be the top-up water station for all cyclists on the three courses. For the final miles to the finish the pace had become much steadier and there was a genuine feeling of satisfaction when we arrived back at Newbury Racecourse.
Overall a fantastic route and a great day to remember and can’t wait to ride again on 13th June 2010
For more details and to enter the rides www.cyclegb.co.uk