Another Sportive For Cavendish

Mark Cavendish, 26-time Tour de France stage winner and 2011 World Road Race Champion, has announced the return of his Official Sportive – Rise Above Sportive – for 2016.

Following the success of the inaugural Rise Above Sportive in 2015 in Chester and the North Wales hills, the date for 2016 edition is Sunday 28th August. 

Having sold out with close to 3,000 riders last year the event will upscale to support up to 5,000 riders in 2016. 

Subject to training and race schedule, Mark himself will be present on the day again to ride on the course, meet some of the riders and hand out finishing medals.

There are three routes again – Enthusiast 80km – Purist 120km – Extremist 160km. The ride will capture scenic forestry roads, linked with breath-taking views and iconic Welsh landscapes including the famous Horseshoe Pass. The ride is full of challenging climbs and inspiring countryside as well as riding on closed roads in Chester. 

Mark Cavendish commented, "Everything I do, I commit 100% and there is no exception for the Rise Above Sportive. It was great to see so many riders of all different ages and abilities with smiles on their faces. I'm super excited to launch the 2016 edition and bring the Rise Above Sportive back to Chester. I want it to be even bigger and better.”

Mick Bennett, Operations Director added, "There are few, if any, sportives around the world that have as its patron and founder a rider with the stature of Mark Cavendish, the world's most successful sprinter. This alone must position the Rise Above sportive as unique amongst the many. Coupled with the iconic backdrop of Chester Cathedral and the picturesque lanes and climbs of Cheshire, this has to be for the many, a sportive that cannot be missed