Schools challenge off roaders

As cyclists flock to the roads to join in the pre- Le Grande Depart fever, mountain bikers can take up their own challenge off-road on Saturday 3^rd May to help raise funds for local primary schools in North Craven.

The ‘3 Schools Event’, is a highly unusual Yorkshire Dales outdoor challenge that attracts cyclists, horse-riders, runners and walkers of all ages to take part.

 Entry to the event can be competitive or purely for pleasure with a fundraising entry fee of £8 in advance or £10 on the day, with family tickets available at £15.

Beginning and ending in Clapham, behind the car park, the 19.08km / 11.93m course runs through some of the most spectacular countryside in Britain as it winds its way through the Three Peaks area of the Yorkshire Dales with panoramic views at 410m / 1345ft. There is also a shorter circular route of 12km / 7m which may be attractive to some. This route is just £5.

Gill Wood, Head teacher of the three primary schools Austwick, Clapham and Horton explains “After a hugely successful event last year we’re delighted that the event is attracting wider interest from outside the area and from all sorts of clubs and organisations.  This year we’ve changed to a circular route which will make it much easier for everyone taking part and holding it on the May Day bank holiday weekend also makes it more attractive.”

The schools are appealing for more riders, cyclists, walkers and runners  to join their fundraising challenge and are keen to exceed last year’s total.  As well as attracting clubs and societies, the event provides a rare opportunity for family members with different interests to enjoy their respective hobbies together.

Horse riders travelling to the event to take part will be able to try out stretches of the Pennine Bridleway project.  With plenty of the route being off-road, the event provides a rare, safe opportunity to enjoy magnificent scenery on a clearly way-marked route with plenty of opportunities for canters.

Entrants are also encouraged to generate sponsorship support to help with the fundraising effort. The Traddock at Austwick are sponsoring the attractive prize of a dinner for two for the person generating the most sponsorship to win. Last year’s winner raised in excess of £200.

Information is available on local accommodation providers for participants travelling from away, including those bringing cycles or horses. Times and maps are available in advance or on the day, along with safety advice. Refreshments will be available en route, together with free tea and coffee at the finish point. There will also be bacon and sausage butties, cakes and biscuits available for purchase.

Donations in support or cheques for entry to the challenge event should be made payable to Horton-in-Ribblesdale School  and can be sent to Mrs G Woods, Executive  Headteacher, Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24 0EX.  Further details are available from the school on 01729 860282 or by e-mail from:  headteacher@achconfed.org.uk.