Castles and Cathedrals Sportive

The Castles and Cathedrals Sportive offers riders one last challenge at the end of the season.

The Sportive also gives riders a unique opportunity to ride alongside double Olympic Gold Medalist Geraint Thomas. Geraint has very kindly agreed to become our Ride Ambassador and will be riding on the day.

The Ride takes its name from the historical landmarks of South East Wales. There was a Roman Fort in Cardiff over 2,000 years ago and Brecon was first established as a Roman Cavalry base. The Vikings and Normans have all left their mark over time but the area is also rich in history from the Industrial Revolution and the importance of iron and coal to the development of the area. Cyfarthfa Castle has its history firmly associated with the iron works of then Wales’ largest town – Merthyr Tydfil.

This 92 mile ride offers starts in both Cardiff and Brecon. You can choose to ride between either Brecon and Cardiff, or vice versa, starting at either location or complete the whole loop again choosing your starting point.

The route takes in both difficult climbs, wonderful scenery and hundreds of years of history.

There is a total of 2,000 metres (6,500 feet) of climbing.

Leaving Cardiff the route steadily starts to climb before entering the Rhondda Valley. The climb over Maerdy Mountain is followed by a sharp descent in to Aberdare before heading towards Hirwaun. Cycling through Penderyn riders then head up in to the National Park towards Brecon.

The second leg is the easier part of the ride but does include the steepest climb over 250 metres (500 feet) in under 3 kilometres (under 2 miles).

All riders receive details of their performance on the day. Each rider will receive a warm meal at both Brecon and Cardiff.

The Ride is organised by Shelter Cymru – Wales’ people and homes charity. Shelter Cymru is faced with a record demand for its services and any profit plus any sponsorship raised, for those who choose to do so, will be used to help families across Wales to find and keep a home.

The Entry Fee is £40 for the complete route and £25 for an individual leg.

We are also offering a VIP rider package. Full details can be seen on the Entry Form.

Entries close Tuesday 14th October 5pm