Beatson Cancer Charity - Beat the Ferry 2023

Beat the Ferry Bike Ride · 20 May 2023
Could you Beat the Ferry for Beatson Cancer Charity?
We challenge you to cycle 52 miles over four stages through spectacular Argyll countryside, while trying to catch the ferry at each stage!
Starting on the stunning island of Arran, you will set off from Brodick and aim to catch the ferry at each stage of the journey, before finishing up in Rothesay with a chippy to celebrate.
Sound like the challenge for you? It's time to get on board and enjoy breath-taking scenery across islands, sea and hills whilst raising vital funds for patients and their families facing cancer.
The Route: 5 Ferries and 4 cycle stages
Ferry 1: Ardrossan to Brodick – 0700
We will meet at the Ardrossan Ferry Terminal at 0630. Once aboard the ferry, please make your way to the rear of the café where we will meet, introduce you to the support team and go over any questions you may have.
Stage 1: Brodick to Lochranza – 14 miles
Staying on the A841 which will take you along the coastal road and then on to Glen Sannox, after which there will be a long, steep hill followed by downhill most of the way until the Lochranza ferry terminal.
Ferry 2: Lochranza to Claonaig – 0930
Stage 2: Claonaig to Tarbert – 11 miles
Taking the B8001 for 4.7 miles consisting of single track uneven road and undulating hills. Turning right on to A83 where marshals will assist (very busy road) then right on to the A8015 towards the Harbour. Packed lunches will be collected from the Marine Bistro in Tarbert and can be eaten on land or on the ferry.
Ferry 3: Tarbert to Portavadie – 1115/1215
A chance to eat lunch
Stage 3: Portavadie to Colintraive – 19 miles
A tough leg of the challenge, consisting of single track, uneven roads and extremely steep hill over Tighnabruich with all participants taking extra care. Fantastic viewing point at top of this hill and worth taking a break here for refreshments and photographs! Right turn towards Colintraive will be marshalled. Smooth, main road to see you to the last ferry.
Ferry 4: Colintraive to Rhuboddach – 1500*
Not much time to rest with this very only taking 5 minutes!
Stage 4: Rhuboddach to Rothesay – 8 miles
An easy last leg – continue on the A886 and keep to Marine Road A844 until you reach Rothesay. You will enjoy complementary fish & chips before we get the final ferry back to the mainland.
Ferry 5: Rothesay to Wemyss Bay – 1600*
Homeward bound!
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