INAUGRAL 'CHILTERN IOO'
Sunday 18th June 2006

As cyclosportives boom in Europe and the UK the VCC piloted the 'Chiltern 100' in June with a view to running a major event as part of the UK's growing cyclosportive calendar.

Aimed at experienced club riders who may be preparing for major European cyclosportives such as L'Etape du Tour or the Italian Grand Fondos the "Chiltern 100' was limited to VCC members, friends and selected local clubs to test the route and organisation. This allows VCC to consider commitment and a 'scale up' for a public event in 2007.

The weather was hot, slightly humid and dry, with the Chilterns looking magnificent. The stage was set for an epic that would take 36 riders over many of the classic climbs and descents and through much of the fine scenery that makes the Chiltern Hills so popular with cyclists.

The 103 mile circular route included 2600m of climbing with a series of punishing climbs on the Chiltern escarpment that stretches between Dunstable Downs in the east to Watlington to the west of the M40. The start and finish was at Great Missenden with the ride out to Dunstable Downs and the return from Watlington taking in an additional series of demanding smaller hills. ROUTE MAP & PROFILE...

There were some very tired legs back at the finish in Great Missenden, but as Dave Harbord who was in training for L'Etape put it, "It was hard but I wouldn't have wanted it less hard - that was the point of it"

All riders completed within a very creditable 7 hours 14 minutes.

Fastest times: Matt Palmer (VCC) & James Wilson (Condor Cycles) joint time 5hours 47minutes
Full Results...

EDDIE SPRIGGS