DENS’ Legendary Hemel Hillbuster is Back

Sunday 24 April sees the return of this iconic cycling event over stunning Chiltern Hills and through beautiful, historic villages.

Run in association with British Cycling, this firmly established and hugely popular sportive attracts hundreds of passionate cyclists from around the Home Counties and further afield. Offering a choice of 100k and 60k routes, starting and finishing in Hemel Hempstead’s Gadebridge Park, both courses are designed to challenge experienced cyclists up tough climbs and along scenic springtime countryside.

New for this year, DENS has introduced a 25k course to inspire those just getting into cycling and wanting to find out more about sportives. As part of British Cycling’s Breeze programme, there’s also a women’s-only 25k ride, which aims to inspire females of all ages and abilities to discover the joy of riding a bike.

Highlights across all routes include challenging hills for varying skill levels, a number of well-stocked feed stations and the chance to celebrate at the end of the ride with a well-deserved beer and burger.

Sponsoring this year’s event is Lovelo Cycle Works in Berkhamsted. Their passionate team, who offer high quality cycling products and services, will be on hand during the day to support riders with a mobile bike repair service.

Tim Warrell, Director at Lovelo Cycle Works, said: ‘It was a great experience helping cyclists at last year’s Hillbuster, so we’re thrilled to take our support one step further by sponsoring this fantastic event, supporting both the riders and the important work DENS does within the local area.’

Premier League club Watford FC, and their commercial partner, Alan Day Group are also sponsoring the event and have contributed some fantastic auction prizes for fans of the Hornets, including a match-day hospitality experience for two and a signed home shirt. Bidding for these unique prizes is open to the general public.

Paul Tanner, Managing Director at Alan Day Group, said: ‘We’re delighted to show our support and help publicise the event, which will also help raise awareness of DENS and the outstanding services they provide, by offering some prizes with our business partners Watford FC.’

All proceeds raised from the Hillbuster will support DENS in their mission to help rebuild the lives of people facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion.

Wendy Lewington, DENS CEO, said: ‘The Hillbuster is such a positive event for our community. It’s always a joy to see the camaraderie of the cyclists that venture from near and far to take part, while also helping to support vulnerable local people.’

Registration for the Hemel Hillbuster is now open. To sign up or place a bid on a choice of Watford FC auction prizes, please visit www.dens.org.uk/cycle.