The Event
A 105km or 101mile Randonnée with a total ascent of 800m or 1,319m
The routes are a circuit of the New Forest, where possible along scenic, minor forest roads, which of necessity cross many cattle grids - hence ‘GridIron’. You will get an idea of how large and varied the New Forest is while enjoying the lovely autumn colours and a glimpse of the sea and the Isle of Wight towards the beginning.
Both routes use the same start/finish and the same controls/halls along the way, allowing you to ‘mix and match’ the two routes, depending how you feel. The choice is entirely yours but please ensure you are capable of cycling whichever distance you choose. The ‘Challenge 100 mile’ route is a much more demanding ride designed for the experienced cyclist. The middle section is common to both routes.
The event is run like an Audax:
Sign On at The Lymington Centre from 07:00 onwards, collect your Brevet Card, enjoy a free hot or cold drink and buy a lovely bacon roll before Setting Off from between 08:00 and 10:00. To avoid the first Control being overwhelmed, your departure will be controlled in groups of 20, please have patience if you are required to wait.
First Control at 39km and 71km respectively is Stanley’s Own, Scout and Guide HQ, at Copythorne, it opens at 09:45 and closes at 13:00. Have your card stamped and enjoy a free drink and biscuits provided by the scouts and guides.
Second Control at 68km and 100km respectively is Godshill Village Hall, it opens at 11.10 and closes at 15:30. Again, have your card stamped and enjoy a free drink and biscuits.
Finish back at The Lymington Centre at 105km and 101 miles respectively. The check-in opens at 13:00 and closes at 18:00. Enjoy a free hot or cold drink and buy refreshments to refill the tank whilst relaxing and sharing your experiences of the ride. Spot yourself in projected photos of the day’s ride and make some new friends.
Please note, all entrants need to ensure that they and their children:
are capable of cycling 66 or 101 miles and coping with potential bad weather.
ride roadworthy bikes and are capable of coping with breakdowns - we do NOT have a breakdown service.
cross Cattle Grids steadily & square on, or get off & walk.
can navigate from the Route Sheets or GPS Cycling Computer. We do not sign the route as signs can get removed or changed and self-sufficiency is the ethos of the ride. Study your map to supplement the written description - carry out a little homework beforehand and you'll not get lost and enjoy it all the more.
Follow the link to hundreds of photos of past ‘Gridiron 100’ rides: https://www.flickr.com/photos/145844545@N03
A link to the photographs of the day will be posted on our Facebook page 'CTC Wessex Cycling' shortly after the event. 'Like' our page now so you don't forget.