DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced that online registration for this year’s Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge will soon open.
The 600 places will be available to book from Tuesday, January 11, at 10am.
The charity’s ever-popular Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge takes place on Sunday, May 15 and supporters wishing to take part, will have to be quick, as demand for the 600 places available is once again expected to be extremely high.
This year’s 55-mile route will revert back to starting at Watchet Harbour in Somerset at 11am and finish in the Dorset seaside resort of West Bay. A shorter 11-mile route will start at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2pm and also finish in West Bay.
A photo from last year's challenge
The Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is not designed as a race and involves cycling through some of Dorset and Somerset’s most beautiful countryside. With a mixture of quiet back roads, interspersed with some very demanding climbs and equally hairy descents, the event has something to offer for everyone.
There are several pit-stops along the route, which provide a well-earned rest and refreshments for those that want it.
As ever, there will only be 600 places available. Participants can enter as an individual or as a team and the charity is hoping that anyone who is fortunate enough to gain a place, will use the opportunity to also raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.
Emma Jones, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance fundraising manager said: “We are so delighted to be able to run our incredible Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge again in May this year.
“This is our largest fundraising event, with many who have needed our help taking part. Some ride in memory of loved ones and some ride to ensure that we will be there for the future.
“With 600 riders taking part, it is a fabulous day to be part of.
“My husband is hoping to gain a place this year, as he wants to challenge himself and raise money to help us continue saving lives across the two beautiful counties that we serve. I on the other hand will be handing out medals on the day - a much easier task.”
Online registration will open via the charity’s website: www.dsairambulance.org.uk where more information can also be found. Entrance fees are £32 for adults and £12 for under 16.
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