FAQs…

Which route will the cycle challenge take and how far is it?
The total cycling distance for the Italian Lakes cycle ride is 246 miles

Where do the cycle challenges start and finish and at what time?

The Italian Lakes cycle ride starts from Milan Malpensa (Novotel) at 9.00 am on day 1 and finishes in Milan centre, at approximately 4.30 pm on day 3.

What level of fitness do I need to have for this challenge?
This is not an easy cycle ride, but don’t let that put you off. You will be in the saddle for three consecutive days, cycling between 55-75 miles for 6-8 hours each day. If you give yourself enough time to train and get used to your bike it is a challenge that can be overcome by everyone. Get in touch with our Event Manager, who’d be happy to chat with you more about the challenge - events@tfaltd.co.uk or 0333 4441189.

What training do I need to do?
As you will be cycling for a long time for three consecutive days getting comfortable with your bike, shoes, helmet, and clothing is essential. We all have busy lives, but try and get out on your bike at least 2-3 times a week, and if you can practice riding in groups. We will be setting up a cycling forum if you want to chat, meet, or even ride with others before your challenge. Do check out our training tips and remember your training should be fun! If you are a member of a local gym sign up for a spinning class, as they are great ways to prepare. We encourage you to build up to the challenge and our team is on hand to help you with any advice you may need.

I have a medical condition, what should I do?
We strongly recommend anyone who has a medical condition should seek approval from their GP / Consultant before signing up for a challenge. When registering for the event, you are agreeing to be fit and healthy enough to take part. The Health and safety of all participants and members of staff are paramount to us. Depending on the type and severity of your condition, we may require a letter from a medical professional stating that you are fit enough to undergo the activity. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (below) for further details.

How will each day of cycling work?
Each day’s cycling will be broken down into 4-5 shorter cycling sections, usually between 15-20miles long. After each section, there will be ‘Stop Points’ where you can take on snacks and drinks, rest your legs and catch up with your fellow challengers. We have a number of support vehicles traveling with the group so if you need to stop or want to ride in one of the support vehicles for part of a section that’s absolutely fine.

Will food and accommodation be provided?
Whichever package you sign up for, charity place or self-funded place all your meals and accommodation will be provided. We do not provide breakfast on Day 1. Accommodation will be in 2* hotels, which are more than comfortable, but if you wish to upgrade on Day 3 we can arrange for you, but there will be an additional charge, depending on the level of upgrade you want. All the additional bookings are subject to availability.

What type of bike do I need?
Above all, one that you feel comfortable riding for three consecutive days. We would recommend a road bike or hybrid, but if you have another type of bike and you are comfortable riding it for three consecutive days that’s fine. Do feel free to talk to us in advance, especially if you plan to buy or want to rent a bike.

What happens if I experience problems with my bike?
Don’t worry we have a bike mechanic with us on the support team, who will be able to provide any quick roadside repairs to get you going again. If the repairs cannot be completed at the roadside, we will get your bike, to a bike shop as quickly as possible. We do have a reserve bike, which you can use at your own discretion. If not available or you choose not to, you will need to travel in one of the support vehicles. Any additional repairs needed to your bike will need to be covered by yourself.

What happens if I get injured?
We have carefully planned out this challenge to try and make sure that no one gets injured. Unfortunately due to the nature of group cycling over 3-days on public roads, there may be injuries. To support you we have a qualified medic in the group and support vehicles if you need to be taken for additional medical attention. It is though, your responsibility to make sure you have adequate medical insurance, a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), and cycling insurance to do this challenge. Additional costs for medical support may be incurred, which will need to be covered entirely by yourself.

Do I need insurance?
YES! You must have your own insurance and it will need to cover you for cycling activities, your personal possessions and medical support wif needed outside the UK.

If you are a UK resident and have travel insurance already, please ensure you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge to see if you require a further policy or additional cover. You can visit the British Cycling website or Yellow Jersey insurance for extra support and information on this topic. Do call them to get the advice that will ensure you have the right cover. You do need liability cover and they would be happy to chat more to advise you.

There are plenty of other companies that also provide this cover and support and the above two organisations are only suggestions.

What other documents do I need?
You need to have the following documents to take part:

• A valid passport (European cycle challenges only), which is valid for at least six months after your return home date. If non-UK passport it is your responsibility to get the relevant visa if needed. Unfortunately, we can’t help if you are refused entry at passport control.

• Cycling Insurance - You must bring a copy of your cycling insurance policy with you

• Health Insurance - You must bring a copy of your health insurance with you or a health insurance card

• Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have travel insurance for your personal items and your bike

How will I get to and from Milan?
You will need to book your travel to and from Milan, including transport of your bike. We can arrange this if you prefer, please contact us to arrange..

Can I extend my stay?
Yes absolutely. Just let us know when we speak to you after booking and we will help you with your accommodation booking where we can. Additional charges may apply.

If I cancel my place, what happens?
If you cancel within six weeks of the challenge for any reason, you will be liable for the full costs of the challenge. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (see the footer of this page) for full details.

If there are not enough people signed up for an Open challenge, what happens?
All events must have at least 20 riders signed up four months before the event is due to take place. In the event of there not being enough riders for the event you will be offered another place on a subsequent cycle challenge or a full refund of your registration fee. For any funds raised for your charity, you will need to speak directly with them as to how they will be used going forward, TFA will not be able to liaise on your behalf.

When does the event need to have it’s minimum numbers to have the event confirmed?

Minimum numbers are needed 3 months prior to the event in order for the event to be go ahead.

Will participants receive a refund of their deposit if an event is cancelled?

Yes, if an event is cancelled participants will be refunded their deposit or offered a spot on another challenge.

What happens if a participant drops out due to injury and/or other reason?

Cancellations will incur the following fees to the individual.

• +3 months prior to the event - 0% Fee (i.e full refund, but not the registration fee)

• 8-12 weeks prior to the event - 50% Fee (i.e 50% refund, but not the registration fee)

• 0-8 weeks prior to the event - 100% Fee (i.e 0% refund, but not the registration fee)

In these circumstances, deposits will not be refunded but participants will be offered to transfer their deposit to another event.

Can places in the event be transferred from one person to another?

Yes, up until 6 weeks prior to the event at no additional charge. Anything past this date additional charges may apply.

What is the maximum number of participants on each challenge?

We cap the challenge at 70 people.