Going the Distance

Is the Friday Night Skate something you do on one foot? And Backwards? Are those pesky Marathons over before you find your stride? Even if this is not the case, if you feel reasonably relaxed with the London street skates then here are a few one-day events that go for a little longer, both in terms of time and distance.

Athens To Atlanta (A2A)
a2a logoWhat is it? With 27 years of tradition, Athens-to-Atlanta is the oldest and most famous road skate in America. Starting in Athens, Georgia, participants skate through beautiful country roads and quiet suburbia before navigating city streets and triumphantly crossing the 87-mile finish line in Atlanta's Piedmont Park.
How Long? 87 miles, with 52 and 38 mile options for those who don't dare taking on the full distance
Traffic? Yes, it's a road skate, mixing with traffic. Bigger intersections have Cops who help with crossing safely.
Any Food/Drink? There are refreshment stands, and shops along the route. Bring and carry your own drink and power bars.
How Hard/Dangerous? Not a race, so less competitive. On the road, mixing with traffic. And fairly long. Goes rain or shine.
When? October 11
More information: http://www.a2a.net/


Goodwood Dual (ex Mega)
goodwood logoWhat is it? The UK's friendliest Charity Race (NSPCC), excellent for beginners, which runs (besides all the shorter races) an extra-long edition. Last year this was the Mega (101km), where the Goodwood circular winds ensured that only 5 participants managed to finish it. This year they are more realistic, and have shortened this to a double marathon.
How Long? 52 miles
Traffic? No, closed track.
Any Food/Drink? Water stop. Bring your own race food & pic-nic
How Hard/Dangerous? Can feel long if the wind is against you. They give you 5h max to finish this.
When? 9 August
More information: http://www.goodwoodmarathon.co.uk/

London To Brighton (L2B)
bhf logoWhat is it? BHF organized Charity Cycle Ride, from South London to the coast.
How Long? 54 miles
Traffic? Traffic free for almost all of it. You share this with 50.000 bikes, though.
Any Food/Drink? Water stops. Lots of stuff being sold along the route.
How Hard/Dangerous? Hilly. Mixed surfaces. Steep downhills full of cyclists not used to cycling in groups. Beware.
When? 21 June
More information: http://www.bhf.org.uk/get_involved/take ... _ride.aspx

Rhine On Skates
wns logoWhat is it? This skate tour runs on main roads along the Rhine in the UNESCO world heritage Upper Middle Rhine valley, passing vintages, castles and the famous rock of the Loreley - an experience of unique scenery.
How Long? 135km (84 miles)
Traffic? Strictly No. Police marshalled. By German Police...
Any Food/Drink? Bananas & Water during stops, Pasta for lunch, all inclusive. Bring your own power bars.
How Hard/Dangerous? The easiest of the lot here, despite the distance. Very regular speed. Smooth surfaces. Great Scenery. Recommended.
When? August 29
More information: http://rhine-on-skates.de/english.html

111
111 logoWhat is it? Europe's premier inline skating event (they claim), a race in Switzerland, running 111 kilometers along public roads as well as through the scenic countryside between Mount Säntis and the Lake of Constance.
How Long? Er, 111 km. or 69 miles
Traffic? No, the roads are closed for this.
Any Food/Drink? Refreshment stands along the route, included.
How Hard/Dangerous? It's a race, not a road skate or tour. The last 40km (ie the last marathon) is up hill.
When? August 16
More information: http://www.one-eleven.ch

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