Things To Do In October

Summer’s gone, but fun on two wheels is far from over

- Oskar Scarsbrook

The road season is wrapping up and the clocks will soon be going back which means it’s cyclo-cross time — a discipline perfect for beginners and old hands alike.

Cross is arguably the most accessible form of bike racing in the UK with race categories ranging from under-12s to veteran 60+ and, whisper it, most leagues accept mountain bikes.

As the courses in October will still be relatively dry this is an ideal time to start practising your technique before the cold, muddy winter sets in. Here are a few meets we’ve picked out from up and down the country.

GO - RIDE CYCLO-CROSS RACING

Kendal Cycle Club | Westmoreland Showground | October 5 From under-8s to adults | £1

Run on the same weekend as the National Trophy Series at Westmoreland Showground, this Go-Ride event run by Kendal Cycle Club is the perfect way for newcomers to test their ability on a national level course.

Although the ride will be run in a race format, the aim of the event is to introduce new racers to the thrill of cyclo-cross. Entry for all races is just £1 and any type of bike can be ridden. bit.ly/2lW4A76

EAST KENT CYCLO-CROSS LEAGUE ROUND 2

VC Deal | Betteshanger | October 20

From under-12s to vet 60+ | £5-£17.50 The course at Northbourne Park is the perfect place to test out all your cyclocross skills.