Bombay's Challenge Event Training Series (BCETS)

Do you love to climb hills on a bike? Are you looking to improve your climbing skills? Do you want to get in shape for a challenge event such as the Horribly Hilly Hundreds, the Dairyland Dare, Ironman Wisconsin, the Wright Stuff Century, or other endurance events?

Bombay’s Challenge Event Training Series (BCETS) is a program of training rides designed to help participants prepare for hilly endurance cycling events. The program focuses on the Horribly Hilly Hundreds (HHH) challenge ride held in June, and is timed to peak your fitness for that event. However the program will benefit anyone who wants to improve their hill climbing skills and fitness, regardless of whether or not you participate in a challenge ride.

One of the unique aspects of BCETS is that the program starts early in the season. Weather permitting, outdoor training rides will take place every Saturday morning beginning the first weekend of March through mid-June (the week before the HHH). Ride lengths and the amount of climbing increase through the 15-week training program. The first two rides of the season are relatively gentle, but the rides quickly progress to very hilly and challenging. Ride distances range from about 30 miles to 70 miles. One century ride is also included on the schedule.

Avid cyclists of all abilities are welcome – if you can maintain at least a 12-14 (or more!) mile per hour pace for at least 2-3 hours (over varied terrain) and want to improve your fitness and ability to climb hills, you will fit in.  Please note that this program does require some level of fitness. Participants should be in reasonable shape prior to the start of the program, by either riding indoors, running, swimming or being involved in winter sports.

Be ready to be challenged during the rides. Most of the training takes place on the gorgeous (and very hilly) country roads west of Madison. The rides can be hard, but you’ll share the challenge with a friendly and supportive group.

We ride in small groups to accommodate different speeds and minimize our footprint on country roads. Each group is led by an experienced cyclist.

BCETS kicks off with an orientation meeting in February.  Topics include the ride schedule, training tips and other advice. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the program.

BCETS not only gets you in peak cycling form by June, but also provides the camaraderie and motivation of fellow cyclists who also love to ride up and down the hills around Madison.

The program fee is $70 for Bombay Bicycle Club members.  The program is limited to Bombay members, but don't worry -- if you aren't a member, you can sign up as a Bombay member and be eligible for BCETS. Click here to join Bombay Bicycle Club ($35).

Questions?
If you have questions, first try looking at our Frequently Asked Questions on the BCETS Resources page, or contact BCETS at BCETS@bombaybicycle.org.
 
Follow the BCETS Facebook page for updates, announcements, and photos. www.Facebook.com/BCETS.

Register for BCETS Here!