St James Cycle Challenge

On the challenge itself our experienced team, will be with you at every stage of the journey.

If you’ve got a problem with your bike, or you’re not feeling well, then the team will be on hand to support you.

Our experienced team will always be very close by.

What’s included…

• ACCOMMODATION - All nights during the challenge. See below for more information.

• FOOD & DRINK- breakfast (not day 1), lunch, and snacks at breaks.

• TRAVEL - Overnight Ferry crossing from, Portsmouth to St Malo. Departs 8.15pm and arrives 7.45am.

• SUPPORT - 24/7 support from our event team, professional medical team, bike mechanics, and partners from sign-up to return. Any bike parts are at an additional cost.

• BIKE RETURN - Transport of your bike back to St James’ offices after the event. If you’d like it sent to a specific location or stored by our team beyond the trip, this can be arranged, but additional costs may apply.

• RETURN TRAVEL - from Saint-Nazaire after the challenge.

• HOTEL UPGRADE - If you wish to upgrade your hotel for your stay in Paris, we can arrange this, but additional costs apply.

• CERTAIN FOOD - Evening meals and specialist food you may require. Please discuss with TFA Events if you require anything.

• ALCOHOL - Not included; we suggest celebrations are saved for the last night. Strict rules apply about cycling after drinking alcohol, and if we decide you are not fit to cycle, we will ask you to travel in the vehicles.

• BIKE RENTAL – Available to all at an additional cost.

• INSURANCE - You must have bicycle liability insurance, medical insurance, and travel insurance, which you will need to arrange yourself.

CLICK HERE for the full training guide as recommended by TFA Events.

Do get in touch with Rich if you have any questions - info@tfaevents.co.uk

DAY 1 - London to Portsmouth | 127 kms | Elevation gain 1,109m | ROUTE MAP

DAY 1 - London to Portsmouth

We’ll set off from London (Windsor) shortly after 09:00am.

As it is Day 1, there are frequent stops and the pace is gentle to allow us to get into the challenge. It won’t take too long for us to wind our way out of London and enter the peace of the Surrey & Hampshire countryside.

The morning ride is sometimes described as hilly; we’ll be honest, it is, but this is the toughest section of the whole ride. After regular stops to recharge, we’ll stop at a lovely country pub for a well-earned lunch.

After lunch, we will continue our journey to Portsmouth, but you’ll be pleased to hear, the route is predominantly downhill.

As we wait for the ferry, we will have a well-earned break and be able to reflect on completing the day during our time on the ferry.

Ferry crossing via overnight Ferry from Portsmouth to St. Malo, departs 8.15pm and arrives in St. Malo at 07.45am.

DAY 2 - St Malo to Rennes, 138 kms
Elevation gain 682m | ROUTE MAP

After an early wake-up call and getting off the ferry, we will have breakfast and then start day 2 of cycling.

The route on Day 2 is considerably flatter to start with, and the morning section ends with a view of the world-famous Mont-St-Michel.

After this remarkable iconic site, and a few more short stops, we will arrive in Saint-Brice-en-Cogles for a well-earned lunch, having also covered 65% of the 138km day.

After this lunch stop, we will be back on the road for an up-and-down stretch to Rennes, our destination for Day 2, but there are plenty of snack stations along the beautiful route and maybe ice cream!

Upon arrival in Rennes, you will have time to relax, freshen up, and reflect on Day 2.

Do explore the town; it is a hidden gem. Later that day, we will meet for an evening meal in one of the local restaurants, before you sink into bed ahead of our final day, the ride to Saint-Nazaire!

DAY 3 - Rennes to Saint-Nazaire, 120 kms
Elevation gain 897m | ROUTE MAP

By now, your legs may be tired, but they will have the strength from two days of cycling in them.

Don’t worry we we won’t get you out of bed too early. After breakfast we’ll aim to set off by 8.00am. There are a few hills to conquer on this leg, but by now you’ll be ready for them.

After a well-earned lunch stop, Saint-Nazaire will soon be in our sights.

Savor that triumphant feeling as you cycle towards the beach where the fizz will be flowing.

After the initial celebration, we’ll check into our hotel and head to a local restaurant for a celebratory meal.

On the following day, we will return home, where you will be reunited with your bike. If you are staying on longer, do let us know as soon as possible so we can make necessary arrangements for your bike storage (charges may apply).

Please contact us to discuss what would be best for you as soon as you can, so we can plan the best way to support you.

INSURANCE

You must have your own travel, medical, and cycling insurance to cover you for this type of cycling activity.

Travel Insurance - covers you for the damage, loss, or theft of your possessions, your bike, and any other items you bring with you.

Cycling insurance - covers you for taking part in this type of cycling activity. Please ensure you have third-party cover as well as additional medical costs. Visit the British Cycling or Yellow Jersey website for more information. There are plenty of other providers as well.

Medical Insurance - You should also ensure that you have cover for all medical treatment and emergencies you may need, evacuation, and repatriation back to the UK or your home country.

If you have travel insurance already, please ensure you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge.

Do get in touch with us if you have any questions, and our full terms and conditions are available in the footer of this page.

ClOTHING & EQUIPMENT

• Helmet with emergency no.

• Working front and rear lights and a bell.

• Recently serviced bicycle with fitted handlebar tape and bar ends.

• Water bottle and bottle cage fitted to the bike

• Four spare inner-tubes or we can provide - from £10 per inner-tube.

• Bike bag or saddle pack (not essential)

• Comfortable cycling shoes

• Padded Cycling shorts

• Cycling gloves

• Comfortable cycling tops/t-shirts (one per day)

• Waterproof & warm cycling clothing (start of day 2 can be cold)

• Change clothing for three days away (when not cycling)

• Shoes/Trainers/Flip Flops

• Small Hand Towel

• Main bag for all your luggage

• Day pack for essentials

• Prescribed medicine (please let us know in advance)

• Mobile phone, tablet, laptop

• Phone or laptop charger

• Earphones/headphones

• Camera

• European plug adapter

• Toiletries

• Sun Protection

• Ear plugs

DOCUMENTATION

• Passport (must be valid for at least six months after your return home date)

• Travel Insurance which includes your bike - compulsory on our challenges.

• Medical Insurance - You should also ensure that you have cover for all medical treatment and emergencies you may need, evacuation, and repatriation back to the UK or your home country.

• Cycling Insurance - this is a requirement for this trip. See above.

• European or Global Health Insurance Card if applicable - read more…

• Travel VISA (if needed), you can check by clicking here.

• Credit or Debit card

• Other photo identification - Driving License/ID Card

Which route will the cycle challenge take, and how far is it?

The total cycling distance for the London to Saint-Nazaire cycle ride is 378 kms

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

The London to Saint-Nazaire cycle ride starts from London at 9.30am on Day 1 and finishes in Saint-Nazaire, at approximately 3.00pm on Day 3.

Participants must meet at 8.30am.

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What will the challenge cost?

You will need to pay a non-refundable registration fee of £99.00.

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How will each day of cycling work?

Each day’s cycling will be broken down into 4-5 shorter cycling sections, usually between 20-30miles 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 several 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.

_______________

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 for your bike will need to be covered by you.

_______________

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 or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), and cycling insurance (see below) to do this challenge. Additional costs for medical support may be incurred, which will need to be covered entirely by yourself.

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What will happen to my bike after the challenge?

We will bring your bike back to London (St James Offices) after the end of the challenge.

You will need to collect it from the agreed locations during the agreed times.

If you wish to collect it at another time/date or have it delivered to another address, we can do that, but there may be additional charges.

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If I cancel my place, what happens?
You will need to find a replacement, or charges may apply.

Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (below in the footer of this page) for full details.

Will food and accommodation be provided?

We do not provide breakfast on Day 1, but do provide meals for the other days.

Alcoholic drinks are not provided.

Accommodation will be in 2* hotels that are more than comfortable. If you wish to upgrade on Day 3, we can arrange it, but there will be an additional charge depending on the level of upgrade you choose.

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 for your bike will need to be covered by you.

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How long is the ferry crossing?

We cross the channel from Portsmouth to St. Malo. This is an overnight ferry, and we depart at 8.15pm and arrive at 7.45am local time.

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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 back home?
We recommend you book trains from Saint-Nazaire to Paris and catch the Eurostar or a flight from Nantes, which is the nearest airport to Saint-Nazaire.

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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.

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 65-90 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, Laura, who’d be happy to chat with you more about the challenge - info@tfaevents.co.uk or 0333 4441189.

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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 WhatsApp Group 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.

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I have a medical condition. What should I do?

We strongly recommend thatanyone 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.

_______________

What will the challenge cost?

You will need to pay a non-refundable registration fee of £99.00.

_______________

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 several 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?

We do not provide breakfast on Day 1, but do provide meals for the other days.

Alcoholic drinks are not provided.

Accommodation will be in 2* hotels that are more than comfortable. If you wish to upgrade on Day 3, we can arrange it, but there will be an additional charge depending on the level of upgrade you choose.

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 for your bike will need to be covered by you.

_______________

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 or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), and cycling insurance (see below) 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 if 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 further policy or additional cover.

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 back home?
We recommend you book trains from Saint-Nazaire to Paris and catch the Eurostar or a flight from Nantes, which is the nearest airport to Saint-Nazaire.

_______________

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?
You will need to find a replacement. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (below in the footer of this page) for full details.