Event: 8 June 2013
Saturday 8 June 2013 marked the first running of the Haydon Hundred Cyclo-Sportive, an event based in Haydon Bridge and leading cyclists on two challenging and most scenic routes through the surrounding Northumberland and Cumbrian countryside. The longer 100km route culminated in climbing to England’s third highest surfaced road at 1998 feet, while the 60km route offered a less energetic but no less scenic alternative.
On the day almost 250 cyclists arrived in the village to start the event in perfect conditions. Setting off from 0830, the first to return from the 60km route were back by 1130, followed by those from the 100km event just under an hour later. The sunny weather and on-site hog roast resulted in a picnic-style atmosphere as participants relaxed outside the event’s start and finish point, the Bridge Community Library. All were full of praise for the event, quoting the professional level of organisation, the friendliness and enthusiasm of the organisers and marshalls, and particularly the awesome flavour and nutritional value of the flapjacks on offer at the feed stations.
The Haydon Hundred is organised by the Haydon Bridge Development Trust as part of its remit to support local businesses by encouraging tourism and raising the village’s profile. Any surplus income left after costs are covered will be used to help with the running costs of the village’s volunteer-run Community Library and Information Point. A vote of thanks is due to the team of volunteers who helped plan the event and pitched in on the day to help ensure a warm welcome and a well-organised event. Likewise our event sponsors, Northumberland National Park, Haydon Bridge Coop, Northumbrian Water, Activ Cycles and Tynedale Timber Supplies, whose assistance helped make the Haydon Hundred the success it was.
All agreed that this was an event worth repeating, so the next Haydon Hundred will take place on Saturday 7 June 2014, starting and finishing in Haydon Bridge. For bookings, timings and other event details please visit our website.
