Sellout Yorkshire Wolds sportive attracts 320 riders

320 cyclists from all over the country took part in the 10th Sundown 60 sportive at Wold Top Brewery recently.

The annual event is organised by David Hought, co-founder of Wold Top Pactimo race team, and hosted at the brewery, which has supported the race team since it was founded in 2016.

The challenging route, with 3,606 feet of elevation, took riders on a spectacular 60 mile ride into the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds and Ryedale. The sportive challenges convention as, instead of an early morning start, riders departed in the afternoon and returned before sunset to enjoy an evening of food, drink and live music in the Brew Shed. 85 of the cyclists also stayed over on the Wold Top campsite.

“We were blessed with perfect weather again for the 10th Anniversary of the Sundown 60. The riders set off in small groups to ride the wonderful rolling roads and a few challenging hills in the Yorkshire Wolds.  The feedback is always great, with many cyclists returning year after year. With the benefit of the option to camp over, the day doesn’t just end when the ride finishes.  Fish and Chips from Stuarts of Driffield and a welcoming pint of Wold Top await the hungry and thirsty riders,” said Mr Hought.

“This year we had the fantastic duo ‘Milestone'  playing requests and getting those with a bit of leftover energy up and dancing right until the end of the night!  With cyclists attending from all over the country, it’s a great way to showcase the beautiful countryside we have on offer here in the Wolds.”

Participant David Tough said: “Loved it, 3rd time I've done it now. Well worth the drive up from Norfolk. Thank you to everyone who makes this happen!”

Since it was founded by Mr Hought and Richard Baldwin, Wold Top Pactimo Racing Team (RT) has been dedicated to supporting and developing local cycling talent. Over the years, the team has helped riders progress through the ranks, with some even advancing to continental racing and world pro teams. Members of the race team were present during the sportive to help guide and marshal riders.

Kate Balchin, director at Wold Top Brewery, said: “As keen cyclists ourselves, it’s great to know that others are enjoying the Wolds, and we loved hosting this fabulous event for the tenth time.”

The brewery also hosts a 5 and 10k all-terrain running race, which takes place annually in September.