Tag: Sportive

If you’re a cyclist who is spending your winter grinding away on the trainer and awaiting spring’s arrival, maybe you need a future event to keep you motivated. Of course, Italy, Spain, and France grab a lot of attention because they are the countries where the pro grand tours are held.

Another big hotbed of cycling you might not be aware of, though, is England. The country is very enthusiastic about the sport and has many roads and events in which to indulge your cycling wanderlust. One event, for instance, is considered to be one of the hardest and most challenging sportives in the country (and in Europe)! That is the Hampshire Hilly Hundred.

About the Hampshire Hilly Hundred

Unfortunately, there is little to no background information to be had for this ride or its origins, only that 2025 will mark the 14th year of this event. The Hampshire Hilly Hundred is considered one of the most “senior UK cyclosportives” in the country and takes place every May. That would suggest that it has been around longer than other rides that are similar.

Hampshire is in southern England and is a historic area in terms of archaeology and anthropology with many sites. Hampshire includes the Isle of Wight and Winchester, areas that are visited during the ride. As a very brief historical note, Hampshire featured as part of Saxon England and in the Norman Conquest. Today, it is sometimes referred to as “Southamptonshire.”

The Hampshire Hilly Hundred Route

The ride starts at Sparsholt College in Winchester and proceeds to pass through several surrounding towns, such as Beacon Hill, Watership Down, and Windmill Hill in addition to other small towns. The course is 102 miles and features over 6000 feet of climbing.

If cyclists think that distance is too much of a leg buster, they can choose to ride 68 miles. Whatever option cyclists choose, The Hampshire Hilly Hundred is fully supported with road marshalls, feed stations, road signage, and mechanical support.

Costs for the Hampshire Hilly Hundred and Rewards

If you choose to take on The Hampshire Hilly Hundred, be aware you only have two route options. One is 102 miles and will run you 38 pounds ($48.00) and the second is 68 miles and that is 35 pounds (roughly $44.00).

Cyclists are awarded with a medal and a meal at the end of the event. This ride is not considered a race, but cyclists can choose to ride The Hampshire Hilly Hundred as a timed ride or as just an event ride.

Last Thoughts

If you’re seeking an event to keep you motivated through the winter and a way to burn off that stockpiled energy, The Hampshire Hilly Hundred might be for you. For a very low event entry fee compared to the cost of similar rides in the United States, this looks like a cool ride to participate in.

Of course, if you are coming to this ride from somewhere else in Europe, the United States, or another part of the world, your travel costs will have to be considered. This event would probably be the least amount you would spend on your trip to the U.K. Still, if you have the time and resources, I would recommend registering for this event. This ride sells out every year, so if you want to do it, I’d recommend signing up soon.