The Dragon Ride is one of the oldest and most iconic sportives in the UK, returning to Margam Park on Sunday 9 June 2019 for its 16th year. Riders tackle epic climbs through the stunning Welsh scenery of the Brecon Beacons and thousands secured a place in the legendary event when entries opened at 10am on Wednesday 17 October 2018.

Inspired by the popularity of Italian Gran Fondos in his home country, original event organiser Lou Lusardi held the very first Dragon Ride in 2004, with just 280 riders. At the time there were only a handful of sportives in the UK and Lusardi saw an opportunity to bring this type of event to South Wales.

The popularity of the inaugural event and the demand for a new cycling challenge saw the Dragon Ride more than double in size each season over the next few years. Continual growth since has seen the current event become one of the largest UK open road sportives, and a must-do event in the cycling calendar.

Leading mass participation events company Human Race took over the organisation of the Dragon Ride in 2012 when the start/finish moved to the current venue, the picturesque Margam Park near Port Talbot. The Dragon Ride has always been an event at the forefront of cycling innovation, being the first to use online entries and disposable timing chips. 2014 saw the introduction of the mammoth 300km Dragon Devil distance, and in 2015 a three-day Dragon Tour was created with the Dragon Ride as the finale.

The evolution of the event has always had the spirit of Wales at its heart combined with a true passion for cycling. The 2019 Dragon Ride has seen a brand refresh highlighting the heritage of the event and celebrating the local landscape. The four different route options (100km, 153km, 223km, 300km) showcase incredible scenery and allow riders to experience the wild and rugged beauty of the Welsh countryside, from sweeping descents to challenging climbs such as the Devil’s Elbow, Rhigos and Devil’s Staircase.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of the 2019 Dragon Ride. The event has historically sold out in just a few days, so don’t miss out on your chance to claim a place!” says Nick Rusling, CEO of Human Race Events. “With beautiful scenery, epic climbs and a fantastic finish line experience, the event really does have it all.”

Entries are now available at www.dragonride.co.uk – secure your spot now!