The Boxford Tornado

An unexpectedly lumpy course makes this Suffolk sportive one to savour.

Descending fast through a tunnel of trees you emerge into Kersey and brake hard for the ford at the bottom. Clattering over the cobbles beneath the clear water, all your momentum lost, you click into the little ring, then out of the saddle, climb yet another short, sharp hill.

The tiny Suffolk village may only be five miles into the Boxford Tornado, and possess its only ford, but by the time you have left you will have a good idea of what this 60-mile sportive is all about. Short, punchy climbs punctuate the majority of the route, though there are two distinct sections. The southern half winds and climbs through shallow but steep folds in the land. The topography creates a beautiful sense of isolation, narrow lanes and small hills producing a tight, insular landscape where you feel you could get lost at the next junction.