Posted: 28/07/06
The Hot Challenge is nearly upon us (Sunday 30th July) and if the weather is anything to go by in the previous days it could be a scorcher. So please take note of our advice below on refreshments.
If you haven't pre-entered don't worry, just turn up as entry on the day is always available at every Test Valley event. Registration opens at 8.45am, you can start riding between 9 and 11am. The venue at Vernham Dean will be signed from the A343 Newbury to Andover road at Hurstbourne Tarrant.
You will be given an event number board, please mount this on your handlebars. It will be used to identify riders for safety purposes and so that times can be recorded for your information. The Tours are NOT races! For your safety event marshalls will be situated at various points and some roaming marshalls will also be riding.
Please bring plenty of water so you can start the ride well hydrated and be as self-sufficient as possible. There will be a total of three water stops on route if you need a top-up with free TORQ energy drink. TORQ Fitness will also be at the start/finish with their fabulously tasty energy bars and energy drink powder available for purchase. If you prefer something a little stronger you'll be pleased to know we have diverted the route to pass by the Cross Keys Inn at Upper Chute toward the end of the route, which will be open from 11am.
Don't forget that just by entering you will be eligible for the prize draw to win a Giant Boulder Mountain Bike worth £500, or a Sagem 32" LCD television. The draws will take place at the Cool MTB Challenge in November.
We hope you enjoy the ride. If you need to contact us perhaps with your tales of the weekend please e-mail . Have fun!