Shenstone Audaxes: date for 2008 is 20th April.
Audax UK is the club for long distance touring cyclists. Audax members organise a large number of none competitive events throughout the year. The event distances range from 50km to 1400km. On an Audax event each entrant is given a route card of directions to follow and a 'Brevet Card'. There are several check points along the route (often in cafes and tea shops) where the rider must get their Brevet signed. The events have generous time allowances and as they are not races there is also a minimum time in which the ride can be completed. Audax rides are great social events where you can meet friends, old and new, whilst discovering lovely countryside. You do not need to join Audax UK to take part in their rides.
200km Castleton Classic
The ride starts at 08:00hrs.
The route takes you through Lichfield and on to Ipstones via Abbots Bromley and Cheadle, to the Control at Ipstones Village Hall (refreshments included). The ride continues along the edge of the National Park to Buxton, then via Winatts Pass to Castleton. Control at the Woodbine Cafe.
The return leg is via Bakewell; Grangemill and Ashbourne to Control at Wyston Village Hall (refreshments included). Return to Shenstone via Scropton; Tutbury, Whittington and Lichfield.
This is an interesting ride with some scenic views along the Morridge and over the Peak National Park, but is only recommended for experienced and fit riders.
160km Derbyshire Dales
The ride starts at 08:30hrs and follows the same route as the 213km to Ipstones for the first control (refreshments included). The route takes you through the Peak District via Hartington to Grangemill, where it rejoins the 213km ride.
This is a good ride for those of you who wish the sharpen up after the winter, and offers some scenic views of the Derbyshire Dales. Again, this is a ride for the experienced, or a challenge for a mixed ability group.
102kM Staffordshire Lanes
The ride starts at 09:00hrs.
The route takes you through Gentleshaw and Rawnsley to Cannock Chase and the first control at The Little Fawn Cafe at Milford Common. The ride continues via Abbots Bromely through the Needlewood Forest to Barton and over the Trent to Roliston. Control at the Beehive Cafe. Then return via Clifton Campville and the Sittles to Shenstone.
Contact:- Geoff Findon, 47 Castle Close, Cradley Heath, B64 6RN, (0121) 601 8973.
If you would like to know more about Audax UK and see the full list of events then visit their web site: http://www.audax.uk.net