The 3 Counties Challenge

The Rotary Club of Kendal in association with the Kent Valley Road Club organises an annual cyclosportive in the first week of July. There are two routes available - one of 60 miles which is ideal for riders who have not tackled a sportive before or who are out to enjoy themselves, and a 112 mile route that offers a real challenge for the more experienced rider.

The routes take the riders through outstanding scenery in Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria - the three counties which give the event its name. The terrain varies from level stretches beside Morecambe Bay, through the hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and over the magnificent Kirkstone Pass in Cumbria's Lake District on the longer route. If you have Google Earth installed on your PC or tablet you can download the routes and take a virtual tour.

The 60 Mile Route

This is a slightly less challenging route than the main course, unchanged from last year and covering 60 miles with 1803m (5950ft) of ascent.

The 60 mile route follows the early miles of the main course and then climbs over Kingsdale and bypasses Ingleton, before returning to the start. Suitable for less experienced riders, but still a formidable ride.

The 112 Mile Route

RIDERS in the 2013 Three Counties Challenge sportive on July 7th 2013 will follow the Mallerstang Valley between Dent and Kirkby Stephen and ride past legendary Pendragon Castle, reputed home of King Arthur's father, Uther.

The main route of the 3 Counties Challenge features over 10,000 ft of ascent over some of the most difficult and challenging terrain that Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire have to offer, finishing in the magnificent unspoilt hills of the eastern Lake District. This route will demand all your energy and bike skills and has become a classic cyclosportive.