The event took place in cool and variable weather. 254 rode on the day and this was made up of 140 Gladiators, 62 Goldilocks and 52 Family. This total number is record again for the event, from last year's total of 186. We are approaching a maximum number that can be accommodated with the village hall and car parking. So book early for next year, to avoid disappointment.
The route marking stood up to the weather and most riders got around without getting lost. There were no recoveries needed by the organisers. The most frequent complaint was about the signage in Salcey forest on the way home.
There were 500 lemon drops and 500 flapjacks served at the refreshment stops on the route.
There were a number of incidents with a dog at the farm at Lincoln Lodge. This has been reported to the Right's of Way Officer and we will follow up again on this next year.
No complaints have been received from the public.
Riders have been very complementary over the organisation and the food and here are few of the comments that riders have sent to us after the event.
Remember that this event is organised by the Hackleton Branch of the Women's Institute as a fund raising event for village projects.
Thanks for a great event. Another 10 miles on the route would be good as I found it quite an easy ride. But I suppose if it was muddy that would make it tougher. I really enjoyed the route and I realise that you are catering for all abilities. We got chased by a Brown and white spaniel before Castlethorpe. All noise I think! Had a problem finding the way through Salcey on the way back missed the signs and came out by the French Partridge! Really enjoyed the good food at the end, great value!
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Thank you very much for organising the day. I did the Gladiator Route with my grandson and we both enjoyed it very much. The route was a good mix of terrain. I was particularly impressed with the catering at the checkpoints and the finish; thank you to all the people who were involved with this. The signposts on the route were very good apart from the last section in the forest, which, I understand is difficult to mark, due to the forestry commission rules.
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I would definitely be interested in a Gladiator Plus Route, say 40 miles. Once again thank you for organising the event and I look forward to doing it again next year.
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It was our second year of the challenge and we really enjoye the day. Thank you for organising and we look forward to entering next year. Maybe, with the boys being older next year, we can cycle the Goldilocks route! Congratulations on a well run event.
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Another great day! Thank you so much to you and your team for all the organisation - which must be a big headache! Unfortunately, we were one of the few who suffered a puncture but, without fail, everyone who cycled past stopped to ask if we had everything we needed and if we required any help. What a nice bunch of people!
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As someone who has never done anything like this before, I would just like to say how much I enjoyed the day. All my fears about getting lost were unfounded. I would certainly be interested in a Gladiator Plus route Thanks again
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Just to say that we had a great time riding the Goldilocks route for the first time this year. We feel that it is much more challenging than the name suggests and perhaps warrants a more fitting name - no ideas just yet but will keep thinking!!
Everyone was very friendly, welcoming - food and cakes fabulous.
Thanks for a great day, we will be back next year all being well.
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Yes thanks for all your efforts its great to have a local ride, weather was good again. Works well as an event pay your money have a ride and get fed, cash goes to good cause. Better than having to tap friends up for a sponsored event. Comments: Gladiator plus route yes PLEASE.
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Great event and very well organised. I like the sound of a Gladiator Plus route and will certainly be attending in 2010 with my club mates from Northants Triathlon Club. Have you considered a run instead of or as well as the bike ?
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It was a great day and even better cakes than last year if that is possible
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I really enjoyed the day even though it took my friend and I 6 hours, two flat tyres and getting lost in Salcey Forest! I would like to thank you all for a wonderful tea afterwards and I hope to do it again next year, perhaps a little quicker, and better prepared! Fortunately no stiff limbs!!
