CCN goes behing the scenes with Whitehorse challenge event organiser, Fergal McGrath
Can you tell us a little about the White Horse Challenge and how it came about?
The White Horse Challenge is a 90 mile cyclosportive which goes past 4 white horses namely Borad town, Cherhill, Hackpen & Uffington. The event has grown in popularity in the past 5 years. All profits raised from the event go to WaterAid and we hope to hit the £50 level from the 2011 event.
What makes the White Horse Challenge special for riders?
It is smaller non commercial cyclosportive with lots of character. I think it is best summed up by the articles which riders that take part have written about their experience.
What have been the highlights of the last 2 years?
We make small improvements every year and see the positive effects.
Also, the post event feedback from the riders makes it all worthwhile.
How do you see the White Horse Challenge 2012?
Small tweaks to improve once again but keeping the same core.
The Challenge certainly makes for a picturesque ride, which are your other favourite routes?
1. Dragon ride (Wales)
2. Etape du Dales
3. Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford (Ireland)
4. Wicklow 200 (Ireland)
5. Various bigger events in France, Spain and Italy.
What keeps you awake the night before the event?
I sleep like a baby after 8 hours of putting out direction signs & final prep for the 4AM start.
Sportive is being hailed as the 'new golf', would you agree?
Definitely, you just need to look at the number of events compared to a few years ago.
The 2011 Whitehorse challenge for this year took place on April 17th.
Please click here Results for Photos
For more information please visit: www.whitehorsechallenge.com
