Dunfermline CC host first Audax event

Sunday 1st December 2019 saw the inaugural running of ‘The Braco Way’, a 100km Audax UK ratified event, organised by Dunfermline Cycling Club.

Audax is a cycling discipline in which participants attempt to ride long distances within pre-defined minimum and maximum time limits. Audax is a non-competitive sport - success in an event is measured only by its completion.

The event attracted 60 entrants with 29 starting on the day and 28 completing the course on an unseasonably cold and frosty morning. The route took the riders north over Knockhill and Glendevon to reach Auchterarder. From here the route turned west and out to Causewayhead before returning back to Dunfermline. Temperatures dipped to minus six at the summits of the climbs, but this proved no barrier to the hardy Audaxers. Several entrants even saw fit to extend (ECE) their rides to 200km+. Those brave enough to venture out were treated to sunshine and some of the best roads in the region.

On their triumphant return to the Dunfermline Cycling Club Hub in Pittencrieff Park, the riders were treated to hot drinks & snacks to ease their chills.

Participant Findlay Watt had this to say; “Audax riding is a challenge for every rider: from those who choose to ride quickly control-to-control, to those perhaps returning from a long lay-off and want to challenge themselves to ride the distance within the event time limit. The riding conditions also play their part. Did I mention it was cold? Very cold!”

Finlay continued: “Clear skies made for some good long-distance views, and on the whole, the road conditions were okay. Yes, they were icy and frosty in sheltered places where the sun hadn’t reached, but with care, were manageable. Corrieri’s café was the last control on the road and the welcome I received here, was anything but frosty! The staff were their usual cheery and helpful selves, so it was with some reluctance after a rest and refuel, I left on the last leg to the arrive in Dunfermline. Another warming welcome awaited all the finishers at the DCC Hub, which I must add, is a fantastic depart / arrival venue.

So…‘well done’ to all the finishers; chapeau to Mary Morgan for organising this, her first Audax; and a big ‘thank you’ to her band of friendly helpers for their selfless service providing refreshments to cold and tired riders. What a great way to end The Braco Way!”.

Mary Morgan, lead organiser for the first running of this successful event said; “ I was very impressed with all the riders who braved the elements on such a cold day and would like to thank all the volunteers and Corrieris cafe who supported the event and helped make it such a success”.

For anyone interested in entering their first audax, more information can be found here:

https://www.audax.uk/about-audax/new-to-audax/