Kent’s prestigious 24-hour cycling endurance event takes place once again on the world-class Brands Hatch motor circuit on 16-17 September 2017 and has expanded both on and off the track.
This year’s Revolve24 is attracting interest from both seasoned and novice road riders, time trial competitors and cyclocross fans.
Revolve24, which last year hosted 635 riders, offers the unique experience of riding on the famous motor circuit’s smooth asphalt set in scenic Kent countryside. Tough climbs accompany exhilarating descents, while the designated Brand Hatch pit garages offer warmth, electricity and camaraderie through the long night. Each 3.8km (2.4 miles) lap of GP circuit includes 64m (210 feet) of climbing.
New for 2017 on the track are the 4-Up and 2-Up Time Trials, plus the Men’s and Women’s Crits. Off-road excitement includes the addition of the new Gravel-X Sportive the “BRANDS STORMER”. The 33 mile (52km) multi-surface ride takes place inside the Brands Hatch arena as well as in the beautiful countryside and forests surrounding the venue near Vigo, Upper Halling, Ash and Meopham. The event captures all that the fast-growing gravel cycling phenomena demands.
Established events such as the 24 hour, the 12 hour and 6 hour challenges are once again attracting high numbers of riders.
Revolve24 co-founder Huw Bunn said: “Brands Hatch offers a tough challenge, safety, support and scenery; lending itself perfectly to closed-circuit endurance and time trial cycling events. Our riders keep coming back to Kent year after year for the cycling, the prestige of riding 24 hours and the charities they support.”
“Most of all we try and provide a friendly, relaxed experience for whoever you are and whatever your reason for taking part. This year, we are returning to the origins of the circuit (Brands Hatch was originally a grassy cycling circuit) by creating a spectacular Gravel-X circuit around the racing arena which will be used for a variety of events including our “BRANDS STORMER” Gravel-X Sportive.”
Previous solo winners are returning this year to beat their personal bests; 2015 solo winner Julian Rider rode 684 km (425 miles), climbing the equivalent of Everest AND Kilimanjaro during his solo effort. 2017 solo female winner Gina Cleere is returning to qualify for the Race Across America while beating her PB of 497km (308 miles).
Last year six-time Olympic champion Jason Kenny earned his place as King of the Mountain; climbing the 9% gradient Hailwoods Hill that bends into the famous Druids Corner in just 10.1 seconds.
Jason Kenny said: “I really enjoyed the event. Revolve24 was a definite challenge – both off the track, while trying to look after yourself throughout the weekend, as well as getting stuck in on the track. It has a great atmosphere here and it was good fun.”
Over the weekend, the free Revolve24 App (iOS/Android) will provide team captains and spectators with real-time tracking of riders. There is a host of other competitions too: King and Queen of the Mountains, fastest lap, sprints and rider categories.
Revolve24 offers a team-matching service to put individuals and smaller groups together into bigger squads. Camping and campervan space is available for riders and spectators the whole weekend.
Entry fee includes track time, professional timing system with live race tracking, British Cycling Insurance, shared use of a pit garage, two nights’ camping and parking, 24hr access to tea, coffee, water and snacks, access to shower facilities, WiFi and charging points for lights and devices.
Revolve24 encourages charity rides and has linked up with several charities to offer official places at £75 (24hr Challenge) £50 (12hr Challenge) and £25 (6hr Challenge). These charities are:
Cancer Research UK (www.CRUK.org), Stick n’ Step (www.sticknstep.org), Blind Veterans (www.blindveterans.org.uk) and Operation Smile (www.operationsmile.org.uk)
Join Revolve24 this year at revolve24.com, on Twitter @Revolve24 or search on Facebook for Revolve24
Entry fees:
There are two different entry packages; race only and charity: additional items such as VIP paddock parking, cycling clothing and food can be purchased separately.
24-hour challenge: Soloists £190 (includes a supporter) and from £105 per rider for relay teams
‘Dusk ‘til Dawn 12-hour challenge: Soloists £95, from £75 per rider for relay teams
6-hour challenge: Soloists £40, duos £30 per rider