The Etape du Dales is a cyclosportive held in May each year, in the Yorkshire Dales in the UK. It was originally established as an alternative to the oversubscribed Fred Whitton Challenge; like the Fred Whitton, the Etape du Dales is a long day's ride over steep hills, and the proceeds go to charity – the Dave Rayner fund.
It is ranked as one of the most popular and challenging sportives in the UK, covering with of climbing and is considered one of the top ten rides in the UK.
Raynet provide communications support.
Route The Etape du Dales route is considered challenging.
The route starts and finishes at Wharfedale rugby club in Grassington. The route has varied slightly over time, but now includes Fleet Moss, Tan Hill Inn (the highest pub in England), Buttertubs Pass, and Coal Road. In 2009, the route was , with around of ascents; in 2011, the total distance was .
A shorter, gentler route, known as the Presidents Ride, is also available.
Fastest times
+ Fastest rider times by year Year Name Club/Team Time 2019 Andy Cunningham Wheelbase 05:36:20 2018 Andy Cunningham Wheelbase 05:48:50 2016 Thomas Denwood Harrogate Nova 05:40:32 2015 Andrew Blackwood Shipley 06:23:48 2014 Greg 'The Guv' Ketteringham Harrogate Nova 05:53:22 2013 Greg Ketteringham Harrogate Nova 05:44:07 2012 Jon Sturman Activ Cycles 05:48:28 2011 Jamie Laramée Harrogate Nova 06:19:45 2010 Malcolm Elliott Motorpoint Pro-Cycling Team 05:43:24 2009 Stephen Bottomly CrossTrax 06:04:51 2008 Andrew Peace Science in Sport 05:56:06 2007 Greg Ketteringham Harrogate Nova 06:02:21 2006 Michael Pluckrose TheEnduranceCoach.com 06:10:34 2005 Chris Young Team Marie Curie 05:43:09
See also Fred Whitton Challenge
References
External links
Dave Rayner fund