One of the UK's favourite sportives, the Etape Cymru, will return this September with three new routes promising cyclists some of the most spectacular scenery Wales has to offer.
The 2015 Etape Cymru, sponsored by online cycling retailer Wiggle, will take place on Sunday 13 September starting near Wrexham at Bangor-On-Dee Racecourse. The introduction of three epic routes follows the model of the Wiggle Dragon Ride, making the Wiggle Etape Cymru an ideal challenge for those who have tamed the dragon.
The decision to make the sportive an open road event allows organisers Human Race Events to offer Corto (110k), Medio Fondo (170k) and Gran Fondo (220k) options for the first time. "The closed road Etape Cymru was a huge success over the past four years, but we have something very special up our sleeve this year" says Event Director Kirsty Wilde. "Having an open road event allows us to pick our perfect route so we can access stunning vistas and beautiful scenery more often."
Team Sky cyclist Luke Rowe is supporting the event. "Everybody knows that I am a proud Welshman and the Wiggle Etape Cymru in my opinion showcases some of the most spectacular riding Wales has to offer," commented Luke. "The routes which mirror the Wiggle Dragon Ride set-up provide riders with three route options of challenging but rewarding cycling as they take in some breathtaking sights including the view from the Horseshoe Pass, Llyn Brenig reservoir and the Nant y Garth Pass.
"No excuses - get on your bike and join thousands of others for this spectacular challenge. If like me you have already done the Wiggle Dragon Ride, this is definitely the next 'must-do' Welsh sportive."
All three routes start by heading west and immediately make a beeline for the popular feature climb the Horseshoe Pass in Denbighshire. This four mile climb averages a 5% gradient throughout the 311 metres of climbing, a real test of the legs just 32k into the course. Riders then take the Nant y Garth Pass with a winding slow climb through a forest before coming to the picturesque castle town of Ruthin. It's here the short route will leave the others and follow the River Clwyd for a while before meandering through gorgeous countryside, eventually heading back down the Horseshoe Pass and then to the finish.
Medio and Gran Fondo riders continue North West from Ruthin taking in some beautiful undulating roads to Denbigh where those attempting the longest route will head further west to reach the village of Betws-y-Coed. From here both Snowdonia and Gwydyr Forest Park are visible, with more sensational sights following until cyclists re-join the Medio Fondo riders. Soon after the routes combine they will be treated to some awe-inspiring views at Llyn Brenig Reservoir which has to be seen in reality to be truly appreciated. More rolling hills and striking views follow on the way back to Ruthin, and it's here that all three routes meet for the stretch home.
The 2015 Wiggle Etape Cymru has been developed over the past six months, with organisers working hard to ensure participants have to encounter a minimal amount of junctions and get the best possible experience. An event village will be located at Bangor-On-Dee Racecourse with sponsors and partners including Wiggle on site with a range of great cycling gear available. Unlike previous years riders will not be required to collect their pack the day before, and these will instead be posted in advance.
The official charity of the event is Macmillan Cancer Support. Riders will have the opportunity to raise funds for this fantastic cause and support their work. A special reduced entry rate of £22.50 is available for those choosing to collect a minimum of £100 in fundraising.
Entries are now open for the Wiggle Etape Cymru at the early price of £35 for all routes. The new longer routes are expected to match the demand of the sell-out Wiggle Dragon Ride, so register early to avoid disappointment at www.humanrace.co.uk/cycling.
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