You don't get a lot of 200-mile sportives - for most people, a century is considered more than a decent day in the saddle. But at the Round Norfolk Epic they've doubled down, and entries are now open for the 2020 edition of this 200-mile ride around the fens and flatlands of southeast England.

Now in its third year, the Round Norfolk Epic will take place on Sunday 14 June 2020. The 320km course features around 1400m of climbing; not as lumpy as rides like the Mallorca 312, but nor is it as flat as Norfolk's reputation might have you expect!

At 200 miles the Round Norfolk Epic is one of the UK's longest one-day sportives.
At 200 miles the Round Norfolk Epic is one of the UK's longest one-day sportives.

Two Sportive.com reporters, Dave Chalk and Eoghan McHugh, rode this year's edition. Both enjoyed a fantastic day's riding and the event comes highly recommended for anyone looking for a serious challenge.

>>> Flat out in the Fens: Eoghan rides the Round Norfolk Epic >>>

Starting and finishing at Great Yarmouth Racecourse, the route heads south out of Great Yarmouth towards Beccles and on to South Lopham for the first of four feed stations.

"The course continues along the southern border of Norfolk passing through Theftord, Brandon and out into the fens where you will find your lunch stop at Welney," say organisers Norfolk Cycling Events.

"On leaving Welney you head north to King's Lynn, then on to the coast road and the next feed-zone at Thornham. From here it is now all coast road to Overstand; keep your eyes peeled as you will be passing beautiful countryside and unspoilt sea views.

"Overstand is host to the final feed-zone and from here it's now the last push. The hills start to level out but the views are just as good. This is the shortest leg, so you will be soon back at Great Yarmouth where you will receive a hero's welcome and your bespoke medal."

Each of the feed stations - at South Lopham (44 miles), Welney (88 miles), Thornham (132 miles) and Overstrand (168 miles) - also act as cut-off points, with riders expected to maintain a minimum average speed of 12mph including stops.

Sportive reporter Dave Chalk racing through the Norfolk lanes.
Sportive reporter Dave Chalk racing through the Norfolk lanes.

While 200 miles is a challenge in anyone's book, the cut-offs are generous. Given the relatively flat parcours, this sportive is within reach of most sportive cyclists, provided you've put in some decent training.

The previous two editions of the Round Norfolk Epic have sold out quickly. The organisers have increased capacity to 300 for the next edition, but demand is expected to be high - so, if you fancy adding a double century to your sportive palmares, make sure to enter now.

Entry costs £60, or if you fancy rounding up a bunch of team mates you can get six entries for £300 (six for the price of five).

For more details and to book your place, visit www.norfolkcyclingevents.co.uk.

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