Bealach Beag Sportive 2012
EVENT DATE
Saturday 12th May 2012
LOCATION
Shieldaig, Ross-shire
EVENT SUMMARY
Bealach is the UK’s biggest road climb at 2053ft (626m) from sea level in just 6miles, the event is set in a fabulous unspoilt landscape with outstanding views of the sea and the hills. The Applecross Peninsula is renowned as a gem in Scotland’s crown of natural wonders.
ROUTE INFORMATION
One route option –
- 70km with 1800m of ascent.
“The route will take you south east from the picturesque village of Shieldaig down through Glen Shieldaig to Tornapress. Things get tough now as the road swings sharply upward for the main climb to Bealach-na-Ba.
The reward is great as a massive vista over the west coast and the Isle of Skye opens before you as you plunge down to sea level again at Applecross. The hard work is not over as the next section around the north of the peninsula has hardly any flat as it clings to the coast, past rocky cliffs and sandy coves. This is country rarely visited by the tour buses. Finally you return to charming Sheildaig nestling in the shelter of its loch.”
EVENT FACILITIES
- Waymarked routes
- Electronic timing
- Feed stations
- Free food and drink at finish
- Event photographer
START LOCATION
Shieldaig Village Hall
Shieldaig
Ross-Shire
ENTRY DETAILS
Website entry – Yes (entry webpage)
ENTRY PRICES
- £39.00 per rider
ORGANISERS WEBSITE
Just the most amazing sportive weekend I have had. Five of us drove up from Edinburgh to Applecross having booked accommodation at the Inn there. We took a trip across to Shieldaig to register on the Friday, driving the Bealach on the way back, just to put the fear into me. The day of the event couldn’t have been any better. The start was a bit hectic, Shieldaig being a small place to accommodate so many riders and their vehicles. This event is not a long one and starts nicely enough with a gentle and scenic climb out of Shieldaig. Then comes the beast itself, an awesome climb of around 2050 feet with little or no letup. You are timed separately for the climb so you can see if you are KOM. The home road takes you around the coast, which is bumpier than it sounds. Event staff are friendly and it is well organised. The timing system is a bit old (having to stop and scan cards) but the food and goodies are fantastic. Roads are fairly narrow but at least the climb is done on a closed road. Oh, and the scenery is just about the most stunning you will see on any Sportive in the UK.