Dartmoor Classic 2010 – Didn’t we do well!!!

     Formerly the promoter of the Dartmoor Classic, in its first 3 years, my changed duties this time allowed me the opportunity of getting a close-up overview of the 4^th edition of this fantastic event and what I saw absolutely blew me away. The experience was also quite an emotional one, with waves of pride washing over me as I witnessed what we, the Mid-Devon, have created. Tasked with providing  some on-the-road rider support;  handing out much needed additional water, providing a little mechanical service and ferrying the odd casualty back to the finish, I quickly realised why many now rate this as the best sportive in the country.

     Leaving the now relatively calm and quiet Depart Village, soon after the first few hundred riders had set off, I headed out on the route. Within a couple of miles I passed through the first T junction, where 3 marshals, no less, were red-flagging groups of riders safely through. Another couple of miles on, another tricky spot, and another smiling face pointing the way. At the roundabout in Bovey Tracey, another 3 happy souls were on duty in the early morning sunshine. This level of support was repeated on all the sections of the route I covered and it was mighty impressive. Had the marshals not been at all the key points, the riders’ progress would not have been as safe and smooth, but the volume and positioning of high visibility route signs would certainly have kept most on-course. Given that each rider was also provided with a detailed route card, there could be no excuse for getting lost.

     Arriving in Princetown, I was greeted by what must be the slickest and most bountifully stocked feeding station of any major U.K. event.  The selection of food and drink was very impressive, with one wag saying it was “like the deli counter at Waitrose”. Those manning the tables and organising the drinks were working flat-out to satisfy the constant stream of thirsty and hungry participants. Nearby, and with a gazebo protecting them from the blistering sun, bike mechanics were busy sorting out problems.

     Meanwhile, out on the course, motto marshals, from the National Escort Group, were darting here and there to direct operations at problem points where riders had crashed or where they could act as outriders and help protect them or generally make oncoming traffic aware of the cyclists’ approach.

     Now back in Kingsteignton the Depart Village had burst into life, with 100km riders arriving in ones and twos or small groups. With bands playing and spectators thronging the finish area, it was a big carnival atmosphere that greeted the participants. A quick dismount then parking their bikes in the secure bike pen, the riders were rewarded with a very slick deregistration procedure which presented them with their granite trophy, medal and commemorative musette.

     The result of all this was phenomenally positive rider feedback, which repeatedly rated it the U.K’s best ever sportive. The club’s members, supporters, families and friends can be justifiably proud of what they have collectively achieved. Those who worked tirelessly ahead of the event know who they are, as do those who supported them on the weekend. Those who did not help, yet benefit from what the club is able to provide, as a result of the event, also know who they are and perhaps will now volunteer their assistance for the next edition. So, roll-on next year, when the club take the event further forward and we maintain our position as promoters of the country’s premier mass participation sportive. To all who contributed to this year’s success, thank you so much; it makes me very proud to be a member of the MDCC, arguably the best cycling club in Britain

See attached rider feedback