Cotswold Sportive 2016

March saw the first outing from Apache Brave Racing at the Santini Cotswold Spring Classic sportive ride, with some of our riders taking on a 55km route along stunning Cotswold countryside. Although the weather forecast looked horrendous and the drive down from Coventry entailed battling through snow and heavy rain once the riders reached the start line there was a break in the clouds and the sun shined for the rest of the ride.

The route started with a quick down hill before hitting the first of several climbs which quickly broke up the pack of riders, although the sportive was not a race, more of a fun run type of event, it didn't stop Apache Brave Racing leading the pack and eventually breaking away from the main riders.

There was some strong winds across the open countryside and the roads had many hazards from the storm the night before including a 10 inch deep ford that caught many riders out. The route included a small feed station with 10 miles to go to the finish, it was a welcome break and allowed all Apache Brave Racing riders to regather and have a quick chat, biscuit, refill the water bottles and head to the finish. The ride back from the feed station included several hills and strong head winds which made for a slow return back to HQ.

Once back to HQ a medal, hot pasta meal, coffee and a Easter eggs awaited us which were a welcome reward for a very enjoyable day. It was a great start to Apache Brave Racing season 2016. We are all now in need of a well earned sports massage treatment when we get back to Coventry.