Entries for Struggle Moors, one of the UK's newest and toughest sportives, open at 12 noon today. The ride takes place on Sunday 8th July from Ampleforth Abbey, and features a gruelling 3,120m (10,240ft) of climbing over the 175km (110 miles) course.
Just 500 places are being released for Struggle Moors and entries are now open for pre-registered riders. Entry is priced £40 and includes three feed stops sponsored by OTE sports nutrition, alongside chip timing and free action photographs for all riders.
The course itself is a bit of a stunner, looping through the bleak beauty of the North Yorkshire Moors with barely a mile of flat road over 110 miles. There are five categorised climbs along the way: Boltby Bank (15 miles; 13% avg gradient); Carlton Bank (35 miles; 10%); Limber Hill (66 miles; 16%); Cote de Grosmont (70 miles; 10%) and finally, the aptly named Glaisdale Horror (85 miles; 14%).
What the climbs lack in length, they more than make up for in gradient - remember, the figures above are just the average over each climb! If you're not already packing a compact chainset, you're braver than us...
The ride finishes back at Ampleforth Abbey with an after-party at the event village. Gourmet food vendors, a barista bar and burger stalls - as well as plenty of beer - will be on hand, so you can relax and welcome home your fellow riders.
If you're looking for nearby accommodation, you won't find closer than Ampleforth Abbey; Struggle have partnered with the venue to offer bed and breakfast on site for £43.20. This is expected to sell out fast, visit www.ampleforthabbeyvenues.org.uk to book.
You can also now purchase official Struggle-branded kit. The organisers have teamed up with Paria to create a smart-looking collection of gear to wear on the ride including jersey, bib shorts, gilet, socks and cap - as well as bundle options to save a few quid. There's no guarantee it'll make those climbs easier, but at least you'll look good in the event photos.
Entries to Struggle Moors are open now. For more details and to book, visit ridethestruggle.com.
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