Wrongly worded but 100 miles in one day. I have attempted this ride 11 times and failed twice. But this can be done over 1-2 or 3 days with milage cut to suit. 35 miles a day is nothing- even on this route that has 10,000 ft of climbing on the distance. that climbing can be a gentle 5 to 8% climb or a sudden 20% section in a 15% climb. Most climbs start near sea level and go to 800ft. Downhills cannot be taken fast either as the trail is broken Chalk with ruts- scree and football sized flints everywhere. There are a few smooth sections of grassland that take the strain off the butt but this is one tiring ride if done in one day.

My capabilities and age mean that I will not do this ride again but to do this ride in 1 day does mean that you have to be 100% A.1. fit. I used to train for this one ride most of the year with plenty of gym work in winter and lots of milage up the steeper hills. I cannot put in the training now but if you want to realise how hard it is-normally around 400 entrants with less than 100 completing the 100 miles is the norm. Best trophy I have is from 1997. A Little plastic shield that has the date and the event and one word "Survivor"

My last attempt was posted here and was in 2006 and was a failure

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ns-Way-failure

So when I hear of these riders that are in training for the 2 or 3 day South Downs Way- I have to keep my mouth shut so I don't deflate them.