Latest News

Join The Downing Brothers For The Autumn Strines Challenge

by Henry Peacock

Russ and Dean Downing, are gearing up for their annual sportive on Sunday 14 October, in association with their cycling club, Out Of The Saddle, and Nonnas La Squadra.

russ dean

The brothers are hosting the Autumn Strines Challenge and they're inviting local cyclists along for the ride.

The Challenge, which offers 50km and 100km options, will start and finish at Baldwins Omega off Psalter Lane in Sheffield, and take in some of the region's most stunning countryside along the pair's favourite training routes around the Strines reservoirs.

russ
Younger Brother Russ At The 2012 Tour Of Britain

Dean said: "We're delighted to be holding our local sportive again - last year we had a fantastic turnout and this time promises to be even bigger and better. "Riders will get to experience our regular training routes first-hand - it's a tough course, and one that's always put Russ and I through our paces!" Participants in the Autumn Strines Challenge will be rewarded for their efforts by way of a customary pasta party, complimentary sports massages and nutrition bars, and a variety of other post-ride activities. Family and friends are encouraged to tag along to the after-party from around 1pm at Baldwins.

Younger brother Russ, fresh from his successful fourth place finish in the Tour Of Britain last weekend, said: "We're really looking forward to it, and we're thrilled to be doing it with Nonnas La Squadra, who have always been very supportive of us both. "Much of my Tour Of Britain prep was spent on this route, so it's going to be hard slog, but also great day out - not just for those on the bike but for the whole family."

dean
Dean, On The Rivet (photo: ckingimages)