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Don't Miss Your Pain On The Plain

by Henry Peacock

Wheels in Wheels Events Ltd, organisers of the Forest of Dean Classic sportive, announce the third edition of the Pain On The Plain sportive on Sunday 8th July to raise funds for the official Armed Services charity SSAFA Forces Help.

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Some Roads Usually Strictly Off Limits

Starting and finishing in the grounds of the iconic 17th Century Tedworth House in the garrison town of Tidworth, there will be three distances available, 100 miles, 62 miles and 30 miles. The two longer routes take in some of the best roads on Salisbury Plain as well as a few surprises. The event is unique in that exclusive military roads will be used alongside public roads to add variety and difficulty to the course. A new 30 mile route will also be available for those who would like to try a sportive type event at a shorter distance and will cost £10 to enter on the day.

The actual routes will only be announced several days before the event as some roads are strictly off limits to the public as the organisers don’t want anyone sneaking on to military land to recce the route. The off road sections will be signposted and are optional but not too difficult on a road bike when treated with care.

The long ride will start at 8.00am, medium at 9.00am and short distance at 10.00am. All routes will be fully signposted, have well stocked feed stations (although not on the 30 mile route sorry), full mechanical back up en route as well as the start/finish, and a broom wagon should all else fail. All riders will also receive a hot meal free of charge at the finish.

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Army Cycling Union

In addition to the sportive, the Army Cycling Union is holding its annual Criterium championships on Saturday afternoon in the grounds of Tedworth House for members of the Army. There will also be two British Cycling Go-Ride coaching sessions taking place on Saturday and Sunday at the venue, these Go Ride sessions are free and can be entered on the day.

All proceeds from the sportive will go to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA). It is hoped that riders will take the opportunity to raise extra funds through sponsorship for the charity SSAFA Forces Help with sponsorship forms available on the day.

For more information on the Charity: www.ssafa.org.uk

For Entry: www.wheelsinwheels.com