Entries are now open for the 2017 edition of the Dragon Ride sportive, the annual leg-burner in the beautiful hills around Port Talbot in South Wales. 

The 2017 edition will take place on Sunday 11 June and marks the 14th staging of the Dragon. It's become one of the UK's longest running and toughest sportives; an achievement recognised by Tour de France organisers ASO, who were so impressed that earlier this year they bought out Human Race and gave the sportive its new title, 'Dragon Ride L'Etape Wales by le Tour de France'.

Philipp cruises through a 305km training ride on the 2016 Dragon Devil.
Philipp cruises through a 305km training ride on the 2016 Dragon Devil.

If you think the new name is a mouthful, the Dragon Ride gives ample opportunity to bite off more than you can chew: four routes are on offer, ranging from the 100km Macmillan 100 (£47.50) to the supremely taxing Dragon Devil at 305km (£92.50).

Those with more moderate leanings can choose from the 153km Medio Fondo (£52.50) or the 230km Gran Fondo (£57.50) distance, safe in the knowledge that whatever route you ride you'll be treated to a large helping of stunning South Wales countryside and a few testing mountain climbs to boot.

"Following the extraordinary reception Le Tour de France riders enjoyed in the United Kingdom over the last few years, it is a true honour to bring Le Tour de France's spirit to Wales," comments Christian Prudhomme, General Director of the Tour de France.

"This spirit of course remains in the passion for cycling and Le Tour de France itself but it is also linked to an ideal sportive course and Wales' incredible nature and landscapes. The Dragon Ride L'Etape Wales by Le Tour de France has a route reminiscent of one of Le Tour de France's most magnificent stages."

There will be hills...and potatoes. If you've ridden it before you'll know.
There will be hills...and potatoes. If you've ridden it before you'll know.

But don't just take his word for it - earlier this year Philipp Schwedthelm rode the Dragon for Sportive.com as part of his training for the Transcontinental Race. You can check out Philipp's report here. In fact the Dragon is such a fantastic day's cycling that we go every year - read our reports from 2015 and 2014 for a taste of what lies in wait.

For more information and to book your place on the Dragon, visit www.humanrace.co.uk.

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