Howies Battle on the Beach is the first bicycle beach race in the UK, and will be held in Pembrey on the Welsh South Coast. It’s the first time a major cycling event has been held at Pembrey Country Park, once a Ministry of Defence playground. So riders will have to ride over ex military tracks, through old tunnels, around pillboxes and negotiate minefields… (OK, maybe not the last one)
Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Gower Peninsula and coastal scenery of Carmarthen Bay, the event is open to all off-road bicycles (MTB & cyclocross). If it rolls on dirt and you can pedal it, it’s fine.
The race will be held at low tide, when the sea water will be a mile offshore, meaning the sand will be rock hard and as fast as the fantastic singletrack hidden behind the dunes in the pine forest. And with a digger on site, we may shape some obstacles for the beach invaders. There will be plenty for the serious racers and more than a few surprises around the course to keep everyone on guard.
There are generous cash prizes for the victorious, and bundles of swag from the sponsors howies, Lezyne and Schwalbe.
Camping will be available all weekend with full facilities on offer and the beautiful park and miles of beach means the family will have something to do when they are not shouting at you. If the kids think watching you race is boring, Pembrey Country Park has the longest toboggan run in Wales, pony trekking, a 130 metre long dry ski slope, a giant adventure playground and 8 Wildlife trails with set routes.
If that doesn’t please them, come alone.
Entries will open on January 1st.
Full details will be available shortly: www.battleonthebeach.co.uk