Kinross Sportif Report

The sportive season is well underway now, and a number of PCC riders took part in the popular Kinross Sportive on 28-April.

The day broke with clear blue skies, and a cold easterly breeze. A dusting of snow on the distant Ochil Hills came into view as we headed north over the Forth, and indeed it was only just above freezing as the bikes were unloaded and final preparations started.

The Black route (140Km, 1700m ascent) headed east over the Lomond Hills before heading north to Newburgh on the south bank of the Tay, before looping back towards Kinross over the steep Wicks O’ Baigle. The route then looped north again via a couple of climbs over the Ochil Hills to Dunning and then back south over the Ochils to the Yetts o’ Muckart . The final leg took in further climbs at Knock Hill and the Cleish Hills before arriving back at Kinross.

The whole day was very well organised by Kinross CC– at registration, on route and back at the post ride catering. The route itself is largely on quiet roads and takes in some fantastic Fife and Central Scotland scenery; plenty of classic climbs too for those who like that kind of thing.

Definitely an early year sportive recommendation, with shorter Blue and Red routes also available – but sign up quickly; this year’s event was sold out (700 riders) in just over 24 hours !

Kenny Davidson