Stephen Roche, winner of Le Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and the World Road Race Championships in 1987, enjoyed the fantastic cycling the Chilterns have to offer this week, as ambassador for the new Chiltern 100 Cycling Festival.

The event which takes place on Sunday 16 July 2017 at Penn House country estate near Amersham, brings together two existing highlights of the cycling calendar; the Chiltern 100 Sportive and the Chiltern Cycling Festival. With over 3,000 riders expected, the event promises some of the most picturesque, but challenging road cycling available in the UK, proving that ‘brutal can be beautiful’.

Irish former professional road-racing cyclist Stephen Roche tackled key sections of the route of the Chiltern 100 Sportive on Thursday, including the infamous climbs of ‘Wardrobes’ and ‘Whiteleaf’.  The 172km/107mile Gran Fondo is famed for its 21 gruelling hills, but with two shorter route distances available, the Chiltern 100 Sportive ensures that cyclists of all levels can enjoy the spectacular riding within the Chiltern Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Stephen enjoyed a celebratory glass of champagne following his ride, as all participants will be treated to after finishing their event in July. Riders will also receive a finisher’s medal and a goody bag, as well as entry into the retro-inspired Velo Village with attractions and entertainment for riders and their friends and families. This will include live music, a beer tent, gourmet cuisine and over 30 stalls featuring clothing, equipment, gifts and collectables.

“It’s fantastic to be a part of this celebration of cycling,” says Stephen. “I didn’t realise that there was such amazing – not to mention challenging – cycling country so close to London. With the event being fully supported, you really can just focus on your own riding, getting round the gruelling course and enjoying the stunning scenery.”  

“The Velo Village and huge array of entertainment and activities available for the whole family also promises that the Chiltern Cycling Festival will be a fantastic day out for everyone – both experienced sportive riders, and budding new cyclists alike.”  

The day will also include the Amersham Classic ride, for participants riding vintage bikes, as well as the Cycletta, women only wave of the 52km (32mile) sportive course.

A limited number of entries to the Chiltern 100 Cycling Festival events are still available. For more information and to enter, visit www.humanrace.co.uk/event/chiltern-100-sportive.

Stephen Roche Cycling offers package cycling holidays in Mallorca, small group and private guided rides, carbon bike hire and 4-star accommodation. With no minimum stay requirement, and arrivals on any day of the week, planning a training break in the sun hasn’t been easier. Based on the south side of Mallorca and a few kilometres away from the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, you can explore Mallorca’s great cycling routes alongside a Triple Crown winning legend and his expert team.