Mary Townely Loop mtb challenge

[Lefty]

It might well be a bit too close to the Peaks but if you fancy a good off road training event then this could suit you. The Mary Towneley Loop is part of the Pennine Bridleway and is a tough 47 mile (6300 ft of climb !) off road mountainbike challenge organised by the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain Rescue Team. Its on the Sunday 18th of September and starts a 9.00 am from Fearns Community Sports College which is on Booth Road between Bacup and Rawtenstall. Its just about all rideable and a good time would be 5 hours or so although it has been done much quicker. Cross bikes are a accepteable and in the past lots of riders have completed the event on cross bikes. Details are on the Rossendale and Pendle Mountain rescue team website or details and entry form can be found at http://www.rossendaleharriers.co.uk

[minnellium]

If the 3 peaks had lots of gates for the riders to open, it would be the perfect prep, but as it stands, with 92 gates, I'd heartily advice riding the MTL with a mate or three... Taking it in turns will help your morale and shorten your day.

Saddos like me do it alone... Nuff said

Don't think I can do the challenge this year but it's a great day out

[Lefty]

Done it lots of times and our club ( me !) used to organise this event and we organise the running relay race around the route in Feb but I must admit I have never counted the number of gates, 92 souunds about right though !