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Listed in Red Bull’s ’10 Gravel Events you should enter in 2019′, The Distance is back this June with two days of self-supported adventure ‘with benefits‘ in the South Lakes.
One of our favourites from the 2018 calendar is back again, for the third year running and this year, it will be held in the Lake District. The first instalment was in Galloway and this was followed up with a tour of the Peak District the following year.
The relaxed atmosphere, quirky “we don’t know where are we going” route format and laid back vibes of the evening base camp all combine to make The Distance stand out as one those unforgettable feel-good events.
Hobo Gravel Travel.
Focal Events, the team behind The Distance, brand it as ‘self-supported with benefits’, so you’ll need to pack a sleeping bag and shelter, if you are to complete this fun two day challenge. Don’t think of The Distance as a race, but more a sociable challenge. And if previous events are anything to go by, there will be challenging climbs, rocky descents and fun filled singletrack.
The premise is a little different to other gravel events. There are a series of checkpoints to visit throughout the day, and depending on how quickly you reach each checkpoint, this will decide how far you have to ride to the next one. So faster riders will ride further, perhaps as far as 80 miles, whilst slower riders will do shorter routes.
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Prime Location
The Distance is to take place in the South Lakes, between Staveley and Coniston – old Westmorland. The event will require riders to travel a combination of on and off road routes, in a self supported manner. A mountain bike will be good, obviously a gravel bike will be more efficient but this isn’t a race.
The South Lakes is prime cycling country. Expect some bumpy elevation.
You also won’t know the route until you arrive at each checkpoint. Oh, and you won’t know your final destination. The uncertainty of not knowing where you’re going, is just one of the unusual quirks that makes The Distance so fulfilling. But don’t worry, the camp isn’t some grotty ditch or bus shelter as favoured by hardy bikepackers, you can expect hot food, gin, beer and mocktails. The overnight stop gives an opportunity to relive the day with friends old and new.
Chilling by the camp fire, riders share tales of the days ride.
Get your skates on, entries are limited
If this sounds like your idea of a fun time, then get your entry in quick as there are only 150 places available.
Entries are available now priced at £65 per entrant via ADVNTR. Just follow the link below to book your place on The Distance. Got friends or family that don’t want to ride but would like to join in on the camping fun? They can come along too for £25 per person. Entry to The Distance is subject to a £1.50 booking fee which will be detailed on your invoice.
ENTER THE DISTANCE
Last modified: 6th January 2019
