Your questions answered

Here are some of the most common questions and answers for those thinking of taking part in the Solent Coasts Cycling Challenge:

When is the next Solent Coasts Cycling Challenge?
The Ride will be held on 30 June 2012

What is the distance of the Challenge?
The cycling distance is 66 miles but this is interspersed by six ferry journeys

How long does it take?
This depends very much on your fitness levels and how much you wish to admire the beautiful scenery en route. The challenge is not a race – most riders complete the circular route in 9 to 14 hours

What do I have to do to complete the Challenge?
You must complete the circuit and raise at least £125 in sponsorship for the official charity supported by the event

Where is the start point?
As the route is circular you can start and finish anywhere on the circuit which is designed to be travelled in an anti-clockwise direction. There will be an official check in desk at the Lymington Ferry Terminal.

How much does it cost to register?
An initial non-refundable donation of £17.50 per person is requested.

Are there any other costs involved?
Yes – the costs of the ferry journeys, which are heavily subsidised. The costs for 2012 will be £12.50 per rider. A booklet of tickets will be issued by post prior to the event on receipt of the appropriate amount.

Is there a minimum age for people to be able to enter?
Riders under 16, must be accompanied by an adult and provide written permission from a parent or guardian. This should be included with your registration form.

What fitness levels are required to complete the Challenge?
All riders must be fairly fit. If you do not cycle regularly we suggest that you start a training regime a few weeks before the event which involve two or three rides of increasing distance each week. If you have any concerns about you level of  fitness please consult your doctor before taking part.

How do we enter a team into the Challenge?
Teams are very welcome to enter however each member must register and pay the initial £17.50 donation.

Is there a minimum each person needs to raise if we take part?
The Solent Coasts Cycling Challenge is a small event with only 400 registered places available. We ask that all riders seek to raise at least £125 in sponsorship for the UK registered charity – Hope and Aid Direct.

Can we raise sponsorship for a different charity?
The Challenge is organised by volunteers working for the charity Hope and Aid Direct who put a considerable amount of time into running the event. As such we ask that riders raise funds for this charity alone. If you particularly wish to raise money for another charity as well we would ask that you contribute at least the minimum of £125 for Hope and Aid Direct Registered Charity No.1077146

Is the route suitable for a road bike?
Most of the route is on road however where there is an off-road section alternative directions are available for you to follow.

When do you need to register by?
There is no formal cut-off date for applications, however, as places are limited we recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment. Registrations received after the event has reached capacity will be placed on a waiting list and places allocated if there are any cancellations.

If you have a question to add to this list feel free to ask it in a comment below.