[Closed] Andalucia Bike Race....

I'm also interested if anyone has any info about this event

Is it now a solo race rather than pairs as previously? And yes I realise that's another question before you have any answers!!

I do know that Tim from PureMountains has done it a few times, so sending him an email would probably yield some decent answers.

I've done it twice, and am thinking of doing it again next year. Coz I bloody luvs it I do. Fantastic routes, a real challenge mentally and physically, some seriously very fast people (e.g. Jose Hermida and Carlos Carloma ...nice to line up alongside an ex world champion and a current Olympic medalist). Racing on the continent and in Spain seems to be a massive big deal, the crowds come out to watch, and on the annual national holiday it feels like you're riding Le Tour (well, almost, but at least the parcours is more fun).

Solo rides since last year. Doesn't mean you can't ride with someone else you want.

Logistics are better than most stage races, as there are two main bases rather than point-to-point type transitions.

Great event.

Thanks for the replies folks. I had entered the Sudety MTB Challenge this year but an operation meant it wasn't possible so the ABR looked like a great motivation for some winter training.
I do fancy the sound of this, like your "slightly" positive view of the race rexated ;-)! Would be keen to pick your brains, never done this type of race before, not sure of the logistics etc.

I did it last year with a few others, awesome event, going back this year with 8 of us. I can't recommend the event enough, the riding is great and courses are excellent.
Let me know what you need to know and I'll try and help.
Iain.
Ps make sure you're reasonably fit otherwise the last few days might not be so much fun.....

Where does this sit on the 'Spanish fireroad bashing' to 'actually fun riding' scale?

Enough single track to keep most people happy, some stages you are just abut begging for an easy fire road to have a break!

Hi.
I liked the look of this event. But was put off doing it on my own by the logistics of transport between venues, changing hotels etc.
If there's anyone keen on teaming up to do off-the-bike stuff, I'd certainly be interested.
Cheers
Alan

Thanks for the offer of advice Iain, I will take you up on that if you don't mind me messaging you? It does sound like a cracking race and a good way to start the season.
I will more than likely be heading out alone from NE Scotland Alan so you are welcome to team up, Celtic collaboration!

Andy

Andy, happy to help, email is in profile. Cheers, Iain.

Andy
Will check work, flights etc and see whether I can commit. Will keep you in the loop.
Will be ideal warm weather training

We viewed it as an organised training camp to start with then it got a lot more serious as the date approached!

Just looking at flights. How easy is it to pack everything into a bike bag and small carry on bag with British Airways, and stay under the weight allowance?

Thanks Iain, will drop you a note at the weekend when I get a chance. I had your address previously as we corresponded about one of your teammates bikes last year. I thought I recognised your name from somewhere..
Cheers Alan, am going to book up this weekend, been doing a 5 hour ride for the last couple of Saturdays so hopefully a winters training (hopefully outside) will get me in shape for the event.

Reply to triguy.
Thanks for your message - I couldn't work out how to message you directly so have posted here.
Thanks for offer - but I think a 6 day race in Feb might be too early in the season for me.
I'm hoping to target the BeMC in May - so will miss out going to Spain.
Good luck.

No worries Alan, thanks for getting back to me.
I did fancy that BeMC race as well but you only get so many passes in a year!

Cheers,
Andy