Final few places left for The Monster: 'the UK's toughest sportive'

Entries for The Monster - claimed by organisers to be the UK's toughest sportive - went on sale on Sunday. Only 100 places were available for the event which takes place on 11 July, with half the entries selling out within hours.

Now in its second year, the Monster starts in Llangadog, South Wales and features a 192km route with 4400m of climbing. Aimed at experienced riders "who are bored with the standard, easy sportives out there", organisers A Cycling say it "packs a punch that will rip your legs off."

If that sounds like your brand of fun, head over to the event website and put your name down for what promises to be a memorable day in (or out of) the saddle.

If the Monster doesn't finish you off, there's also a hill climb competition the following day. The Grimpée Mynydd Ddu takes its cue from Grimpée L'Alpe, the mass start race up Alpe d'Huez the day after La Marmotte, and will see riders race up Mynydd Ddu, aka the Black Mountain.

Entrants to The Monster will have a free entry to the Grimpée Mynydd Ddu and there's a cash prize for the winner.

For more info and to sign up, visit www.acycling.com/monster.