Re-established in 2012 by the then newly formed Ilkley Cycling Club, this sell-out 1000 rider event aims to provide a challenging day out through some of the most spectacular Yorkshire Dales scenery….taking in some of its classic (read toughest) climbs! With three routes to choose from, the event provides for differing levels of ability and experience. It thus attracts a range of participants from
whippet-like club riders looking for a gold standard time to those looking for a more leisurely but challenging day out in the saddle. The event is organised and run by club volunteers in conjunction with British Cycling. It raises money for local and national charities and also helps fund Ilkley Cycling Club’s Youth Development Programme, promoting cycling at grass-roots level in the area. Routes
The WRC offers 3 challenging routes 110 miles, 84 miles and 50 miles all starting and ending in Ilkley. The short route (50miles/80km/+1447m) loops out to Grassington and back; the medium route (84miles/135km) continues from Grassington to Halton Gill, looping round to Settle and rejoining the route at Burnsall; the long route (115miles/183km) splits from the medium route at Kilnsey and heads right out to Hawes, swinging east to Garsdale Head and then heading south to rejoin the medium route at Stainforth. The routes are signed and supported by Feedstations at Grassington (all routes), Airton (med/long) and Hawes (long only).
