“The old main road out of Dent to Kirkby Stephen and was regularly traversed by pack-horse trains going to that market; it also served the extensive pits of the Garsdale Colliery. In fact in its long rise out of Dentdale it is called Coal Road in old deeds and manuscripts.”  Arthur Raistrick

28th Feb 2010. Bull Beck Picnic Site, CATON. Nr Lancaster A683 3 miles Jnc 34 M6

8-30 START ‘B’ planned as a group club run. Sign on from 8-10    
9-05 START ‘B+’ sportive riders                     Sign on from 8-35
9-20 START ‘A’ racers etc.                              Sign on from 9-05

£3 entry fee  A certificate will be awarded to all finishers.

‘Reliability Rides are NOT RACES and are organised to require each entrant to ride over a pre-set course within an agreed time. The route is planned to necessitate all-round riding ability and not sheer speed
ROUTE: Bull Beck Picnic Site START, Bentham, Ingleton, Hawes, Garsdale Head, CONTROL,  Coal Road to Dent, Barbondale, Kirkby Lonsdale, Arkholme, Gressingham, Hornby, Bull Beck FINISH.  (Closes 14-00)    67 miles
A detailed route description will be available at the start.                                                                       
Riders must STOP at the Garsdale Head Control Point, where a gel or energy bar will be provided by our sponsor and water will be available. Riders can leave labelled drinks bottles, food etc at the start for taking to the control.
Remember: You are taking part in a private excursion and are responsible for your own safety.  Your bike must be in sound, working order and you should carry a pump, inner tubes and any tools. Check the weather; some of the roads are exposed, so wear adequate clothing.  Although the roads are mainly quiet not all road users may be acting sensibly. The steep descents need extra care. Sheep delight in jumping out in front of cyclists.  Unlike Sportives, Reliability Rides are not signed or marshalled; they test your all-round ability.

Extra details from Brian Greenwood 01524-735838 or bg.kellet@yahoo.co.uk

  Sponsors of the Coal Road Challenge 2010