Described as “your worst nightmare on a bike,” one of the toughest cyclosportives in the United Kingdom, Hell of The Ashdown (HOTA), sold out in record time on Sunday, with all 1500 starting bibs snapped up shortly after registration opened.

Long considered a right of passage for UK cyclists, on 25 February 2024 the 102 kilometers long ride in the middle of winter includes ten feared and rated climbs (five Hors Categorie, one Cat 1 and four Cat 2). Just finishing HOTA is a monumental accomplishment, with typical unpleasant UK conditions (cold, fog, rain and snow) not only likely, but expected.

On the other hand, it could turn out to be a nice warm day…

As some riders will have second thoughts, question their decision to ride through purgatory and cancel, a waitlist has been set up for those still hoping to dance with the devil.

Photo Credit: Rick Findler

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