QUICK ROUND UP FROM THE DAY – RESULTS, PHOTOS & FUNDRASING PRIZE DRAW!

Hello gang!

What can I say, I am undoubtedly still reeling from such an incredible and emotional weekend. I said it on the day but to reach 10 years, with such strong and beautiful support from old and new friends is truly humbling. You guys make the event what it is, and such a pleasure to put on – as important and enjoyable for me.

I hope a few of you heard the live panel with a few of us and CALM CEO, hosted by Matt Barr from the Looking Sideways podcast. We felt it was so important to discuss the impact of the event, the current state of mental health, the role Nelly’s event has played, and what more needs to be done. We all really appreciate you taking the time to listen and hope it didn’t delay the raffle euphoria too much!

There will be a full detailed roundup in the next few days, there are so many more thank you’s that need to be said, not least the support VANS (Becky Bowler and team) have given me and the event since day one, but also the true unsung heroes like Rod on the farm, Toby’s catering team, feed station crews and our friends that turn up at 6am to run HQ.

The CALM fundraising team are crunching the numbers for who won in the £100 prize draw – These will be announced in next 2 days. It looks like you’ve really outdone yourselves this year – individual fundraising on the Just Giving page below is already nearly £25,000. Truly amazing in todays world. We will try and get an approx total by the end of the week.

So for now here are your times from the day, and some pics to check out – Natalie Mayers gallery below has some stunning shots, Natalie used to travel the World with Nelson and other pro snowboarders.

Results Base Times
https://results.resultsbase.net/Results.aspx?CId=8&RId=707&EId=1

Gallery from Ride HQ and Vans ‘Family Ride – by Natalie Mayer

Photo’s from out on the course
https://www.charleswhittonphotography.com/group29472.html

If you have any other questions for now please just get in touch, we will send out a full round up in next 2 days to your emails.

Honestly thank you again from the bottom of my chicken legs for making this event what it has become.

Ride on Nelly!!

RIDERS BRIEF 2022 – THE BIG 10!!

HI EVERYONE, BELOW IS THE KEY INFO FOR YOUR 2022 RIDE – THIS WILL BE UPDATED AGAIN WITH ANY MORE KEY INFO BEFORE YOUR RIDE – AND YOUR RIDER NUMBER WILL BE EMAILED DIRECTLY TO YOU WITH INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO REGISTER ON THE DAY (AS PER 2021 NEW SIGN IN PROCEDURE)

FIND YOUR NUMBER HERE NOW IF YOU HAVEN’T HAD IT BY EMAIL!

https://resultsbase.net/event/6353/participants

Below are the important headline news, and any new fun bits!

1. IMPORTANT: THE NEW SIGN ON PROCEDURE

Due to us striving to streamline sign on, we are operating sign on like last year again. Basically less faff!

 HERE’S HOW:

* For any of the 800 pre-entered you will receive (or have) received an email 5 days before event day from our superb timing guys at ‘Results Base’. This email will tell you your rider number and key details. Please check your junk if you haven’t had this.

* Etch this number deep in your noggin and when you come to sign on at Ride HQ as normal, look for the desk that has your number. (i.e. if your nos is 100 – it’ll be on the 1 – 345 desk say)

* You will be handed your rider pack by our wonderful crew. Say hi!

* NOW THE IMPORTANT BIT: Take that envelope unopened and walk past the timing sensor clearly marked in HQ, this will ‘beep’ as you walk past, this is you signed on, and agreeing to the ‘British Cycling’ rider declaration that will be attached to your email, and printed at HQ. Please read if you are unsure.

* In the packs you will find your number (with all emergency contacts on the back), your timing chip for the left side of your helmet, and zip ties. Lash that number on and your all set for lycra clad magic.

* TRANSFERRING NAMES ETC: If anyone wants to switch distances, or transfer names, they MUST let Henry the wondrous timing operator know so he can update your details. Beer and coffee always welcome as a bribe. Joke. Maybe.

* Any questions at all just shout, or grab any of our staff on the day!

* Happy riding!!!

2. START TIMES & RIDE DETAILS: 

With the three rides on offer, we have set start windows for each route, aiming to ensure all riders finish within a certain time span – both for safety and meaning your well earnt free hot meal at the end isn’t stone cold!

We will be starting you in waves of 20-30 riders, with a five min gap in between.

There will be a full safety briefing at the start line. Please listen carefully.

Take your time, soak in the views, enjoy the food at the feed stations (eat every hour as a rule of thumb) and drink regularly.

Keeping well fuelled is absolutely the key to keeping those legs turning and maintaining energy levels – no fuel, no engine!!

Please stick to these start times, especially the 100 mile riders.

FULL MONTY
Start: Between 0800 – 0900

SPAG BOL
Start: Between 0900 – 1000

CHICKEN CURRY
Start: Between 1000 – 1100

3. FEED STATIONS: 

To keep those legs whirring there will be feed stations on each route brimming with energy food such as bananas, brownies, flapjacks, tea, energy drink, treats etc – all served by friendly faces to keep moral high!

All stations will be clearly marked on route. Please take a little extra care when riding in and out as they’ll be other riders doing the same.

Chicken Curry (25mile)
Long Stock Village Hall @ 12.5 miles.

Spag Bol (50 mile)
Longparish Cricket Club @ 33 miles.

Full Monty (100 mile) 
Hurstbourne Tarrant Royal British Legion Club @ 29 miles
Burghclere Sports Club @ 63 miles.
Longparish Cricket Club @ 83 miles.

Family Ride (approx 5 miles)

Quarley Village Hall.

All feed stations will have a stock of inner tubes to buy and a track pump if needed. Please make a donation in return!

4. CAMPING AT RIDE HQ: 

Free camping is available at Ride HQ on the Friday night.
The site will be open from 15.00 FRIDAY. 

There will be a separate area for camper vans.

No cars will be allowed to park next to tents due to space restrictions.

Showers and toilets on site. Breakfast served from 7am!

There are a plenty of great pubs close by in Wallop, Cholderton and Amport.

5. PARKING: (OPEN FROM 0700 SAT) 

Parking is at RIDE HQ, event staff will direct you on arrival. Please park as close to the next vehicle as possible and keep a beady eye out for cyclists leaving the start if you are arriving after 0800hrs on Saturday.

Once you have parked follow ‘registration’ markers for signing on in the barn.

6. JERSEY ’10 YEAR SPECIAL EDITION.’
Thank you to all of you who embraced our indulgent side and bought one of our extra special merino classic jerseys this year, we sold out which is incredible! Your jersey will be sent to you directly from our suppliers Halo Sport ready for Saturday.
For anyone that missed out we might be a couple for sale on the day, and you can also order one that will be delivered mid October.

7. The Vans Family Ride – Ride on Rascals! (AND WE HAVE A PUMPTRACK!!)

We are really stoked to say we’re putting on the fun kids / family ride again after a great first go last year. The friendly seven mile route is shown below, is all on quiet country lanes (mostly v flat) and has a stop in Quarley village hall where they’ll be juice, tea, cake and goodies. On triumphant return to HQ all kids will receive a token for a ‘Rascal Ripple” (or any other lovely lolly!) from our ice cream van.
If some of you are thinking your little hero can’t do seven miles the good news is if they get a bit pooped you can head straight to Quarley village hall for a snack, recharge, and then head back they way you came to HQ. (It will be signed but please study map link below)
In line with British Cycling rules your own children under the age of 16 MUST be accompanied by an adult or guardian, and MUST complete a form when signing on. No form, no riding sadly – we’d be in big trouble. Also we have to state that even though these roads are quiet all riders must ride responsibly and adhere to the highway code. Helmets cumpulsory for everyone still.

You will also be able to pay and sign on for this on the day in Ride HQ. (Card & cash accepted) 

Start: Approx 1000 @ RIDE HQ

Route:
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37356690

8. THANK YOU DRINK / £100 FUNDRAISER PRIZE DRAW / RAFFLE

As you well know by now this year is the event’s 10 year anniversary. To salute all your unbelivable support, passion and effort over the years for us and CALM – we’d love you to join us for a drink outside the marquee (or in its raining) to toast all you wonderful humans. This will be at approx 430/5pm, following this the raffle and the prize draw will be announced. Please stay and sink a bevvy with us!

9. LOOKING SIDEWAYS LIVE PANEL CHAT & LIVE MUSIC
Matt Barr, long standing friend of Nelson and founder of the brilliant Looking Sideways Podcast, will be hosting a live panel chat after the raffle. This is to discuss the impact of Nelson’s event, his and our legacy and the state & future of mental health right now. Guests will include Simon Gunning CALM CEO, Olympic medalists Jenny Jones & Billy Morgan, Juliet Elliot (Pro cyclist & CALM ambassdor) and others.This will be at approx 5pm following thank you drink. (raffle will be drawn immediately after panel)
Following this panel they’ll be some live music from great old friends of Nelson Les Sneddon Brown & Si Belson and then Chris Chatt’s band ‘De Rossi’.
wearelookingsideways.com

10. SCHOPH EXCLUSIVE PRINT & VANS SKATEBOARD
We are so chuffed to announce that great friend of Nelson and the event, and esteemed artist Schoph, has produced a stunning piece or art to commentate the 10 years.
We have only produced a very limited run of 50 – available to buy here from his Yorkshire gallery. There will also be a limited number available to buy on the day from the VANS tent as well.

11. PUMPTRACK!!

Yes the pumptrack from last year is back at RIDE HQ from Friday for the weekend, this will be free and open for all little (and big) shredders to whip round till they go so dizzy they can’t walk. You can also skateboard on it so bring whatever flying craft you desire. Big thanks to an old friend and UK skateboard legend Pete King for making this happen again.

12. RE-USEABLE DRINKING CUPS FROM MIZU

Like you guys we are trying very hard to use less plastic, and at the same time support great companies and products. SO as last year instead of the usual crappy plastic cups, we’ve teamed up with long standing and brilliant event partner MIZU to offer an extra special and rather snazzy 10 year anniversary special beaker.

On the day when you buy a drink from the bar, you’ll given one of MIZU’S fine metal ‘party cups’ and asked kindly to either leave a £8 deposit, refunded on return, or an £8 donation to keep your cup for ever. (we’ll be able to take card or cash)

Why £8 you say – well that’s the cost of a potentially life saving call on the CALM helpline.

So drink beer, look cool, help save lives. Good hey.

https://mizulife.eu/products/party-cup?variant=32945566285899

IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE: In 2019 we had to alter a junction within the last few miles to make it safer, avoiding a very busy crossing. It does add a couple of miles to the routes but much safer. Thanks so much for your understanding.

Chicken Curry: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882783 – 29.6 miles – 1419 feet climbing
Spag Bol: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882775 – 51.9 miles – 2552 feet climbing
Full Monty: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882697 – 101.3 miles – 5894 feet climbing

If you’ve never been to the event and you want a teaser of what it’s all about and to hear Nelson’s story, have a look at this.
https://www.thecalmzone.net/2019/08/lvl-headed-exploring-physical-fitness-and-mental-health

More news to come…. keep checking this page!

———

We have to say a massive thank you for entering our sportive in memory of Nelson Pratt. The stunning lanes and climbs you will be riding in the Test Valley were his favourite place to pedal his bike, he would love to know so many of you are will be riding them too.

With every pedal rev and bead of sweat your efforts are supporting a great cause and raising awareness for reducing male suicide – the single biggest killer of young men in the UK. That’s over 14 a day right now. Truly shocking.

Over the last 9 years with your help the event has raised well over half a million pounds for CALM, saving hundred of lives.

PLEASE if you haven’t already set up your CALM fundraising page there’s still time, every little bit really does really help. The call centre is currently saving just over two lives a day – just £96 could answer 12 potentially lifesaving calls.

SO thanks again and have an amazing ride. See you at the finish!

WHY ARE WE DOING THIS EVENT?

In loving memory of local resident, pro-snowboarder and keen cyclist, Nelson Pratt, who died in June 2012, we have put together a superb sportive with three fantastic routes in the stunning Test Valley.

Our aim is to put on an extremely high quality event, offering something for every level of cyclist, giving you the best possible day in the saddle. Facilities for all riders are paramount to us, with years of riding sportives ourselves there is nothing we haven’t thought of.

The three routes are all on quiet roads allowing you to enjoy the spectacular scenery, impeccably signed and offer well stocked feed stations.

The queen stage of Nelson’s event, the 160km (100 mile) route offers a tough test, taking in the areas best climbs, fast descents, spectacular views and only the finest roads. This was Nelson’s first 100 mile route and remained his favourite ever ride.

This is a non-profit charity event, all proceeds and 100% of money raised will go directly to our official charity partner CALM.

Hidden Item
WHATS THE FORMAT?

Nelson’s ‘Tour de Test Valley’ is a cycle-sportive offering something for the whole family with stunning 40, 80 and 160km routes, and the new Vans Family Ride of 7miles.

Event date:  Saturday 17th Sept 2022

WHAT DOES THE EVENT INCLUDE?

– FREE parking & Friday night camping at Ride HQ

– Full route marking & map
– Rider public liability insurance
– Mechanical support
– Free energy drink & food
– Hot meal for every rider at finish
– Electronic chip timing
– Emergency support
– On site catering
– Event photography
– Broom wagon
– Toilet facilities at Ride HQ

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

After three of Nelson’s favourite foods each ride has a culinary flavour:

– Chicken Curry: 40km (25miles) £25
– Spag Bol: 80km (50miles) £30
– The Full Monty: 160km (100miles) £35

All entries must be done online through British Cycling.

Please note: Entries are non-transferable and entry via the British Cycling website only. There will be limited ‘entries available on the day.

WHAT TIME CAN I START MY RIDE?

Riders will be able to start anytime between 8.00am and 11.30am on Saturday morning. All riders MUST ‘sign in’ – once you arrive report to the registration tent where you will receive your rider pack with number and timing chip. Clear instructions will be given at the start line.

This registration tent will also be open on Friday evening between 15.00 – 18.30 so you can sign in before the morning if you like.

Riders will be set off in groups of 20 with at least 2mins between each group. This is so we can give each group a quick safety briefing.

WILL THE ROUTE BE SIGNPOSTED?

Yes. All routes are on quiet, stunning roads, avoiding major main roads and will be clearly way-marked all the way. There should be no danger of getting lost! As a back up all riders at registration will be given a route sheet with emergency contact numbers clearly marked.

There will also be marshals at key locations on routes providing extra confidence.

WHERE IS THE START AND FINISH LOCATION?

Ride HQ is located at the Pratt’s Farm where all routes will start and finish. The location provides the ideal base for the sportive and a beautiful roll out for the start of your ride.

There is FREE camping available on the FRIDAY night (only Fri) Site open from 1500 Friday.

Address:
Grateley, Nr Andover, Hampshire. SP11 8LH
Click here for a map.

Ride HQ will be clearly sign posted from all directions.

PARKING: (OPEN FROM 0700 SAT)

Parking is at RIDE HQ, event staff will direct you on arrival. Please park as close to the next vehicle as possible and keep a beady eye out for cyclists leaving the start if you are arriving after 0800 on Saturday.

Once you have parked follow ‘registration’ markers for signing on in the barn.

CAMPING AT RIDE HQ

* Free camping is available at Ride HQ on the Friday night. The site will be open from 15.00 on FRIDAY.

* There will be a separate area for camper vans.

* No cars will be allowed to park next to tents due to space restrictions. We will also have an overflow area for campervans this year.

* There are showers and toilets on site.

Hidden Item
REGISTRATION / SIGN ON PROCEDURE

All riders must register/sign in before riding. Please be advised that if you’re able, registering on Friday afternoon is recommended to avoid congestion on Sat morning when most riders will arrive.

Registration opening hours:

Friday: 15.00 – 18.30

Saturday: 0700 – 1000

* Look for the distance you are doing.

* Registration desks will have riders surnames placed alphabetically on the tables.

* Find your name on the list and grab your pack containing your number, timing chip and cable ties.

* Your rider number should be secured to the front of your bars with cable ties and clearly visible at all times.

* Your timing chip should be stuck to the left hand side of you helmet.

START TIMES & RIDE DETAILS

With the three rides on offer, we have set start windows for each route, aiming to ensure all riders finish within a certain time span – both for safety and meaning your well earnt free hot meal at the end isn’t stone cold!

We will be starting you in waves of 20-30 riders, with a five min gap in between.

There will be a full safety briefing at the start line. Please listen carefully.

Take your time, soak in the views, enjoy the food at the feed stations (eat every hour as a rule of thumb) and drink regularly.

Keeping well fuelled is absolutely the key to keeping those legs turning and maintaining energy levels – no fuel, no engine!!

Please stick to these start times, especially the 100 mile riders.

FULL MONTY

Start: Between 0800 – 0900

SPAG BOL

Start: Between 0900 – 1000

CHICKEN CURRY

Start: Between 1000 – 1100

IMPORTANT NOTES

* No riders will be able to start before 0800, and none later than 1130.

* The start organiser will brief you immediately before you depart. Please go slowly across the start line to ensure your timing chip activates.

* Remember you are riding on an open road so normal traffic rules apply.

* Should you have an un-fixable mechanical problem, or have an emergency, there will be a mechanic and broom wagon on hand to scoop you up. Contact details will be on the reverse of your rider number.

* There will be a mechanic at HQ for the start to help with any last minute tuning. Gary will have spares etc to buy if needed.

* Riders are advised to carry at least two spare inner tubes with them, a pump and tyre leavers.

* HALO Sports will be running a cycle clothing stand stocking the essentials, just in case you left your helmet & jacket on the kitchen table.

* It may well be cold first in the morning, bring suitable clothing, especially if it’s wet!

* THERE WILL BE SECURE BAG STORAGE IN THE BARN.

* UNDER BRITISH CYCLING RULES ALL RIDERS MUST WEAR A HELMET. NO HELMET NO RIDE.

WHERE ARE THE 'FEED STATIONS' ?

Feed stations will be located at regular intervals during your ride. Feed stations will be providing a fantastic array of food, water and energy drink. Please be sure to take full advantage and stock up before you leave. Feed Stations will all have toilet facilities. CHECK OUT THE MAP BELOW FOR LOCATIONS.

WHAT IF I GET KNACKERED AND AM TOO TIRED TO FINISH, OR HURT MYSELF ON ROUTE?

There will be a ‘broom wagon’ that follows the last rider and floats between all routes. If in the case of an emergency you will find a contact number on your route card, this is only for emergencies – sadly it’s not a taxi! There will also be two medic motorbikes and a response vehicle at Ride HQ.

WHAT IF I GET A PUNCTURE OR MY BIKE BREAKS?

There will be a mechanical van offering basic repairs, spare inner tubes etc. Your route card will have a contact number in case of emergency. It is recommended every rider carries two spare inner tubes and a small lightweight tool. Inner tubes will be available to buy from Ride HQ, and the feed stations.

GPS FILES

There are GPS files for all the three routes. You will also be given a route map for your pocket at sign on.

These GPS files and a route map showing all three rides will be sent to your email as well, please check and download for devices if needed. Any questions just shout!

Chicken Curry: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882783 – 29.6 miles – 1419 feet climbing

Spag Bol: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882775 – 51.9 miles – 2552 feet climbing

Full Monty: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30882697 – 101.3 miles – 5894 feet climbing

Vans Family Ride – ‘Ride on Rascals.’
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37356690

ROUTE MAP

ANYTHING ELSE?

JERSEYS
Everyone that has pre-ordered a cycle jersey your order should have been sent to you in the post. If you would still like one you can order one at HQ, this will be delivered in mid October.

CAPS
Our spiffing new cap will be available to collect and buy. They are £15 with all proceeds going direct to CALM.

SPORTS MASSAGE
We are really chuffed that once again the fine physios from Stockbridge Osteopathic Practice will be offering sports massage and treatments after your ride. These guys are incredible and will have you walking like normal again in no time! All donations go direct to CALM.

GOODIE BAGS
In an effort to reduce plastic bags and waste we won’t be giving away goodie bags to everyone, we hope you understand. There will be some free goodies available so please keep your eyes peeled.

And Finally…

Enjoy the ride! Remember even though you are being timed this ride is not a race and you are still on public roads that are open to other traffic. Respect other road users and be vigilant. Any danger spots will be marshalled but remember the roads are open!

All riders MUST wear cycle helmets, this is mandatory for all British Cycling / UCI registered events.

Allez et bon chance! See you in the bar at the finish…