Stage Details:
Route Sheet (updated 11-04-2011)
 
The InterCat is a proven intermediate challenge designed for cyclists looking to excel over an 80 mile challenge distance.  The rolling terrain can be enjoyed as a great fast ride for experienced distance Sportive riders, or as a challenge for Cycle Club or Audax riders.
 
Stage 1: Newbury Racecourse to Sparsholt – 38miles with 850m ascent
 
Leave HQ after the MagnifiCat riders and there’s a short 10% to get you on your way as you head out towards Walbury Hill. The new Scorpion sting   is a triple climb combination of Walbury (20%), Linkenholt (10%), and Conholt (14%) hills which begins just 10miles into the ride. It will test your climbing, descending and endurance resolve. This is followed by a superb 4.5mile glide descent to Weyhill. Maintain your pace as you quickly cycle around the outskirts of Andover. As you approach Stockbridge, testing climbs prepare you for the 8% climb out of Stockbridge, which is deceptive and enduring. Now “rock and roll” all the way to our first main Control at Sparsholt, where you will be welcomed with freshly made food, energy drinks, and bike support, where you will be welcomed with freshly made food, energy drinks, and bike support. supported by NHRC volunteers.
 
 
Stage 2: Sparsholt to Newbury Racecourse – 42miles with 775m ascent
 
The ride for home is classic rolling Hampshire countryside which makes it difficult to establish a steady and sustained cycling rhythm. The route takes you over the A34 and descends into Kingsworthy and continues with a testing section to Stoke Charity - regularly used in time trial events. Hunton Down is a great climb and can be ridden aggressively by strong riders. A new section follows the natural rolling terrain into Overton where you will begin a steady drag endurance climb towards Hannington. The ride rejoins the main route for the 2mile drag climb to Hannington mast. Take advantage of the drinks / top-up station.
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 70miles 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 celebrational beer, at the race-course cafeteria bar!   

 
Route80cat summary
Stages
  • Stage 1 to Sparsholt: 38miles with 850m ascent
  • Stage 2 to Newbury Racecourse: 42 miles with 775m ascent
 
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
Hannington
63
 
Top-up
Yes
Racecourse HQ
80
Yes
Yes
Yes