Over 500 of the original 1100 entrants dropped out before this year’s 3 Pistes Sportive even started – sensibly deterred by the forecast of continuous heavy rain with possible snow. However with Jamie Thin organising the transport there was no wimping out and we arrived at the start in a surprisingly gentle drizzle. The ride starts at Pitlochry and finishes 103 miles away at the Cairngorm ski field. In between it visits Glenshee and the Lecht, involving 2000 m of climbing. The first big climb up Glenshee is comparatively rideable and is followed by nearly 30 km of descent down the Dee valley. Then things get bad. Two warm up climbs lead you to the initial 20% ascent to the Lecht, fortunately with some life saving cakes at top. From here to Glenmore would have been pleasant cycling apart from a nasty headwind, which was a poor preparation for the final grim climb to the ski centre (by this time in hot sunshine). Overall a great ride, well organised, on good roads, with loads of scenery. For results and the official write up see www.3pistescycle.co.uk. Phil Young |