This is the second year of the BEVA Sportive.  Last year the route took in 90 miles of North Yorkshire, so this year we go one better, covering a full 100 miles around west Berkshire.

The course is made of two loops. A 40 mile loop will take the competitors from Newbury, through some of the bluebell woods of the Thames Valley, and down to cross the River Thames on the picturesque toll bridge in Pangbourne. A short climb, followed by a descent, to Streatley, and the River Thames again. Another hill, perhaps less short, and then a gentle waft along flat ish roads across the Berkshire Downs.

Those in it for the short haul can peel off here, while the hard men and women will head out west, along a short and gentle loop past the Uffington White Horse. The stylised horse has stood guard over the Vale of the White Horse for about 3000 years. From here there is a smartish climb onto the Lambourn Downs, and past the historic training grounds of Seven Barrows, home of the Champion National Hunt trainer, Nicky Henderson.

The final section will take the tiring yet elated cyclists across some low lying countryside by the River Kennet, followed by the climb of Coombe Gibbet. Its not Yorkshire, but the climb is a classic, 9% for half a mile. A quick loop around Waybury Hill, and then a pleasant cycle through beautiful countryside, before a triumphant return through the metropolis of Newbury and back to the Rugby Club.

Parking, facilities and refreshments will be available at the Rugby Club. There will be a barbecue afterwards, included in the entry fee, and a pay bar. There will be a broom wagon with some mechanical support. The route will be fully signposted and GPX files available for download.

BEVA is the British Equine Veterinary Association. The BEVA Trust is the philanthropic arm of BEVA and is dedicated to improving welfare of horses and those working with horses around the world. They do this by providing advanced education and support to veterinarians in developing countries. They also send volunteers to perform clinics and public education, particularly in areas of North africa where horses and donkeys are relied on heavily for people's livliehoods but husbandry skills and access to veterinary care is often lacking. To learn more about the work the BEVA Trust does, please go to https://www.beva.org.uk/BEVA-Trust 

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