It's a Hardknott life

It's one of Britain's most famous and toughest sportives - and it's coming up soon. Organisers and finishers share their top tips for completing the Fred Whitton Challenge

- PADDY MADDISON

There are punishing rides, and then there’s ‘The Fred’. Chances are you’re familiar with the famous 180km sportive in the Lake District, with its savage, stabbing climbs, including the infamous 30% Hardknott Pass. It’s sometimes referred to as the hardest one-day ride in the UK, and many of the tens of thousands of riders who’ve completed it over the years claim it’s the most brutal thing they’ve done on two wheels.

Naturally, all 2,500 spaces go like hotcakes every year, and if you’re one of the brave few that managed to bag a spot for May 2023, you’re probably starting to think about anything that might make your day a bit less painful. From sweet-spot gearing to training tips, here are some key insights from those who’ve been there, done it and got the jersey.

Hit the hills 

‘Sounds obvious, but get used to riding up hills,’ says cycling YouTuber and Fred finisher David Arthur. ‘I spent the months leading up to the event going out of my way to find the most horrible climbs I could. It wasn’t much fun, but it helped on the day. I’m fortunate enough to live in the hilly Cotswolds, but even if you’re not graced with local hills the indoor trainer lets you simulate serious gradients. I used the Alpe du Zwift on days when the weather was unkind.’

Choose your kit carefully