The very long awaited - postponed from the May Bank Holiday weekend of 2020 until September 2021 due to the pandemic - Tayside Challenge took place on Saturday 25th September.
With over 200 cyclists taking part - including world record holder and this years event ambassador Mark Beaumont - we saw these cyclists endeavour the long course of 81 miles and the "wee shorty" of 46 miles and were blessed with some great weather for the time of year.
This event simply could not take place if it was not for the hard work put in by our Rotarians - and a very special mention to Steve Blackett and to Chris Kirk - and from Kevin Simpson from Malawi Fruits (http://malawifruits.org.uk/). We were also assisted by Friends of Rotary Ian Lennox and Arthur Ratcliffe as well as wives and partners of our Rotarians.A further special thank you to former members Tom Laurie who drove the recovery vehicle, covering over 120 miles on the day. Tom said he enjoyed himself and enjoyed catching up with old friends.
An early estimate at funds raised is approx. £16,000 which will be shared between Malawi Fruits and Perth Kinnoull Rotary Club.
Some feedback from the day:
"Great event at the weekend again mate, your club really has it nailed for running a great sportive!"
"Having been involved with the Etape Loch Ness for the last couple of years, I can truthfully say what a well run event we experienced today. From all aspects in particular the marshals on course and rotary club members what a relaxed friendly event it was. Many thanks for a great experience good company and an introduction to some spectacular countryside. Looking forward to our next sportive."
"I’d like to thank everyone involved with the sportif yesterday - i really enjoyed it; the course was fantastic, the marshals had a smile and encouragement as well as directions while the feeding stations had seriously tasty food and the friendliest, most welcoming and helpful staff. I will definitely put it in my calendar for next year. In fact, after chatting to other riders after the race, all three of the challenges are going in the calendar! Once again, thank you to all concerned for a perfect day."
"Quick email to say thanks for a brilliant sportive on Saturday. The course is great, but your team of volunteers and the encouragement (and cakes) they provide are…the best. Thank you. "
And, from Mark Beaumont: "This is the most beautiful and friendliest sportive in the Scottish cycling calendar and I am so looking forward to taking part once again."
