Early-season cycle challenge to dust off those winter cobwebs

If you’re struggling for that elusive Christmas present for the cyclist in your life then how about registering them for the Outdoors Show 100 bike ride? Alternatively, you can sign yourself up for this New Year challenge. The early-season event takes place on Sunday, March 28 and starts from The Outdoors Show, held at the National Exhibition and Conference Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.

It raises funds for leading UK children’s charity Action Medical Research. Now in its second year, the ride is a great way for dedicated cyclists to put their winter training to the test or, for those who have succumbed to festive over-indulgence, a great reason to get in the saddle again.

There is a choice of two routes – a 100-mile and a shorter 100-kilometre route – south into the Cotswolds and back. The longer route offers some excellent climbs including Saintbury Hill and Broadway Hill.

Cyclists who take part get free entry to the Outdoors Show from Friday 26-Sunday 28 March, featuring more than 130 stands and demonstrations of biking, canoeing, climbing, scuba diving and mountain boarding. All charity riders also receive a medal and lunch.

Action Medical Research is a leading UK charity with a special focus on child health. Cyclists participating in this event will be raising money to help fund vital work that aims to prevent, cure or treat conditions that devastate the lives of many thousands of babies and children and their families. The charity’s special Touching Tiny Lives appeal funds vital research to reduce pregnancy complications and premature birth, and improve care for sick babies.

To register for the Outdoors Show 100 telephone Tracey Edwards on 01225 776691, enter online at www.action.org.uk/out100 or email out100 [at] action.org.uk. Entry costs £25 and you will also need to raise a minimum of £25 in sponsorship. Families and friends of the riders will also be eligible for discounted tickets to the Outdoors Show.