THE TOUR OF RETFORD ’24 (AMSTEL STANDING)
Traditionally riden on the same day as the Amstel Gold Race in the Netherlands.
The Tour of Retford, affectionally called “Amstel Standing” is a non competitive group ride of 70 miles, run annually since 2010 by Bridgegate Cycles.
Since 2016 the ride has been in aid of Retford Lions Club and is registered at British Cycling as a sportive.
You can count on the support of the Retford Lions, they volunteer there time on the day to staff ride registration and the 5 feed stations en-route.
There are 2 different distance routes the 35 mile and the longer 70 mile. Don’t forget the prize for the best fancy dressed cyclist.
The ride is run on the same day as the Amstel Gold race each year.
Please join us for a fun ride out together, follow the links below.
Click HERE to go to the facebook event page – THE TOUR OF RETFORD ’24
The Route
A Brevet card should be carried by all riders and used to find the checkpoints. This includes a route map and can be collected from ride registration on the day, by all riders. The route is designed to appeal to cyclists of all abilities, from experienced club cyclists to total novices. It is a scenic and social ride. The event is open to any cyclist. Riders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult cycling with them. Participants do so entirely at their own risk and the organisers accept no responsibility whatsoever. You follow a set route at your own pace within time limits of 3.5hrs and 7hrs max. IT IS NOT A RACE – please do not treat it as such. Have a brisk ride by all means, but don’t act like you’re in Le Tour and make a nuisance for other road users.
When you arrive back at the market square, refreshments are immediately available at Spencer’s on the square (other establishments are available) , you can catch up with other riders and maybe the end of the dutch classic cycle race on the TV.
ROUTE FINDING
On the Tour of Retford we encourage self-reliance. You are setting yourself a challenge, so it’s up to you to ensure you are fit enough and that your bike is in good condition. Navigation is your responsibility – study the route to supplement the written description and carry out a little homework beforehand and you’ll not get lost. Don’t trust signs – they can get moved or changed. Check-in in good time please, collect your Brevet card at ride registration from 8am, set off after 9. Set off too early and you could be too early for the checkpoints. Carry the card with you and you can check your route along the way, there are 5 checkpoints around the route where volunteers from The Retford Lions Club will support and water you!