Midland Monster

This event has a brilliant variety of routes allowing a wide variety of individuals to take part and find something that is right for them. All the routes will take in wonderful scenery and brilliant roads as you explore the incredible countryside of the Peak District, Derbyshire Dales and Staffordshire countryside.

Riding a Sportive is a great experience for any keen cyclist because you don't have to worry about researching the area or planning your route as that has been done for you. You can take on exciting roads in a new area, either with friends or with people you meet on the day. And it is important to remember that this is not a race!

In order to make the day run as smoothly as possible for everyone taking part, the first 15 miles of all the routes will be marshalled allowing riders to get used to the well marked routes. There will be over 300 direction arrows and caution signs around the whole circuit.

The event is run in support of The County Air Ambulance Trust, a wonderful and under-supported cause.

The longest route on offer is a real challenge for anyone taking part. Riders will head towards Hope Valley where they will encounter a tough and dramatic climb through the Winnats Pass gorge.

This climb is one of the highlights of the Mega Monster as it is one of the most spectacular and atmospheric climbs in the Peak District. It is only 1 mile long, but averages 12% and the gradient gets steeper and steeper throughout until finally hitting 20% towards the end, making it a truly brutal test.

Riders will enjoy wonderful views and scenic countryside throughout what will be a day to remember.

There will be feed stations at Weaver Hill, The Courtyard Hope, and Bradbourne. For any frequent riders, please be aware that the route is bypassing Ashbourne this year and heading around Carsington Water instead on the way back to the Forestry Centre.

Although not the longest route of the day, this ride certainly still has some challenges and at over 100 miles still a brilliant test for anyone. Riders will speed through picturesque villages and countryside as well as encountering a few hills along the way.

Crowdecote Hill, between Lognor and Crowdecote Village, is a highlight of the Midland Monster. It is a beautiful and tricky climb, and ranked 18th in the Peak District. The climb is 3/4 mile long, averaging between 7% and 20% throughout. Riders will be rewarded for their efforts with a lovely descent into Hartington Village.

There will be feed stations at Weaver Hill, and Bradbourne Village. For any frequent riders, please be aware that the route is bypassing Ashbourne this year and heading around Carsington Water instead on the way back to the Forestry Centre.

Riders will enjoy an interesting route that takes them through wonderful countryside in Staffordshire and Derbyshire. White Hill will be a highlight of the Mezzo Monster, and is the southernmost point of the Pennines. The climb will be a real challenge for the riders, reaching up to 10% and 300 metres of climbing in total.

You will enjoy speeding through the lovely villages of Ilam and Thorpe, before heading through Carsington Water and Bradbourne before the last 30 miles back home.

There will be feed stations at Weaver Hill, and Bradbourne Village. For any frequent riders, please be aware that the route is bypassing Ashbourne this year and heading around Carsington Water instead on the way back to the Forestry Centre.

This ride takes a new route this year, taking riders through Tutbury, Marchington, Abbots Bromely on the way out to Blithfield Reservoir. The route will take you through wonderful countryside in Staffordshire and Derbyshire. Al though this is the shortest of the sportive rides, there will still be a few challenging climbs!

There will be a feed station in Tomlinson Wood.

Families can take on a 2 mile long loop around the forest, on gravel and dirt tracks. There will be some lumps and bumps where you can test out your skills. You can do as many laps as you would like around this fun and exciting course.

Once you've tired yourself out, there is the Hub Cafe at the end of each loop to get food and drink and a play park for the kids, making this truly a great day out for the family.