Welland Valley takes on Fred Whitton 2023

Report from Milly Pinnock who completed the Fred Whitton challenge at the weekend along with Carl Dyson, Tom Medley, Richard Krause, Stu Haycox & Mark Evans

“The Fred is a brute of a sportive; an 122 mile circuit with over 3500m of climbing. It includes Kirkstone, Honister, Newlands, Whinlatter, Hardknott Wrynose and Blea Tarn Passes (as well a lot of the minor, but still really quite savage climbs) of the Lake District.

The weather was wonderfully dry and sunny, the atmosphere electric, and the views of the mountains and lakes were simply stunning.

The early miles flew past all too quickly with the big groups only breaking up after the first really big climb and descent. By this time we were now starkly aware of the true enormity of our task! Those who made it up the 30% sections of Hardknott and Wrynose without putting a foot down will forever have my total respect as it takes immense power, perseverance and great bike handling skills to get to the top without toppling or having someone topple into you!

The descents offered no respite as they were wickedly steep and twisting, requiring nerves of steel to navigate the tight corners, poor road surfaces as well as the other riders and traffic.

The amount of support the whole way along the route was incredible! From the crowds lining Whinlatter pass to the whole families banging saucepans and ringing cowbells outside their houses, people handing out sweets and energy drinks and creating dance parties at the crest of team pass. The people of the Lakes gave us a tremendous welcome and it spurred us onwards to the finish.

Our first Welland Valley Rider home was Carl Dyson who achieved a very impressive time of 6 hours and 27 mins and 45th place, with the whole team completing in under 8 hours 38 mins. A massive achievement for all of us and a brilliant day in the saddle”