Event Overview
Taking place in September 2026, the New Forest 100 Sportive is one of the UK’s most beloved late-season cycling events. Starting from the New Forest Showground, the event offers a choice of distances, with the 100-mile 'Epic' route being the ultimate challenge. The New Forest is a unique landscape—an ancient hunting ground where wild ponies, donkeys, and cattle roam free on the roads. The vibe is one of scenic beauty and camaraderie, but don't let the idyllic setting fool you; this is a serious test of endurance through some of Hampshire’s most undulating terrain.
Course Details & Terrain
The course is characterized by 'rolling' terrain. While there are no Alpine-style mountains, the constant ups and downs (accumulating nearly 1,500m of climbing) will eventually wear down even the strongest legs.
The Roads: The roads are a mix of narrow country lanes and wider open moors. The surface quality is generally good, but you must be wary of cattle grids and the occasional patch of gravel or 'forest debris' (twigs and mast) that can appear in autumn.
The Hazards: The biggest 'obstacle' is the wildlife. The New Forest ponies have right of way, and they often stand in the middle of the road. This requires cyclists to stay alert, especially on fast descents. Additionally, the open moorland sections are notorious for crosswinds that can make group riding essential for efficiency.
Who Should Enter? (Beginners vs. Experienced)
For Beginners: The shorter 'Standard' (approx. 60 miles) or 'Short' (approx. 30 miles) routes are very accessible. The New Forest is a wonderful place to experience your first mass-participation event because the scenery is so distracting that the miles seem to fly by.
For Experienced Athletes: The 100-mile route is a fantastic end-of-season benchmark. It’s a fast course if you can stay in a good group, and it tests your ability to manage pace over a 5–7 hour effort. It’s also a great opportunity to practice your nutrition strategy for even longer ultra-endurance events.
Coach Raye's Race-Day Pro Tips
- Cattle Grid Safety: There are numerous cattle grids across the course. Always approach them straight on, stay off your brakes while crossing, and keep a firm (but not death-grip) hold on the handlebars. If it's raining, they become incredibly slick.
- The Power of the Pack: On the exposed plains like Beaulieu Heath, the wind can be brutal. Do not try to ride these sections alone. Work with other riders, taking turns at the front to share the workload. You’ll save up to 30% of your energy by drafting.
- Fueling for the 'Long Tail': Many riders bonk around mile 70 because they've underestimated the rolling hills. Start consuming 40-60g of carbs per hour from the first 30 minutes. Use the feed stations to top up, but rely on your tried-and-tested gels or bars for the bulk of your intake.
How to Train for This Event
Success in the New Forest 100 comes down to aerobic efficiency and the strength to power over short, punchy climbs. Raye creates bespoke cycling plans delivered via WhatsApp that focus on building your 'all-day' pace while incorporating hill repeats to simulate the forest’s terrain. Whether you’re looking to shave an hour off your previous time or simply finish your first century ride, Raye’s adaptive coaching ensures your training fits into your busy life. Ready to ride with the ponies? Start your journey with Raye today.