The popular Devon Delight Audax is set to roll back into Newton Abbot on Sunday 26 July, based at the Courtenay Centre, with in excess of 100 riders already entered.
Routes across Devon countryside
The main event is a 100-kilometre ride that will take cyclists over Haldon before descending towards Exeter. From there the route continues through Stoke Canon—where organisers have arranged a refreshment stop—then on to Thorverton and Longdown, finishing with a run down the Teign Valley back into Newton Abbot.
For riders looking for a stiffer test, the South Devon Cycle Touring Club is also staging a 200-kilometre event, the Shore To Moor. That longer course includes a loop taking participants north to Tiverton, Witheridge, Hatherleigh, Lydford and Princetown. Organisers note the longer distance is aimed at well-prepared, endurance cyclists.
- Date: Sunday 26 July
- Base: Courtenay Centre, Newton Abbot
- Main distance: 100 kilometres
- Alternative: 200 kilometres (Shore To Moor)
- Refreshment stop: Stoke Canon (100km route)
What an Audax means
An Audax differs from some mass-participation sportives in that it places more emphasis on self-reliance. Riders are expected to manage their own pacing, navigation and minor mechanicals, and the event allows a generous time limit to complete the course. The South Devon Cycle Touring Club highlights that the format suits those who enjoy a measured, independent challenge rather than a tightly marshalled race.
| Route | Notable points |
|---|---|
| 100 km | Haldon, Exeter, Stoke Canon (refreshment stop), Thorverton, Longdown, Teign Valley, Newton Abbot |
| 200 km (Shore To Moor) | Tiverton, Witheridge, Hatherleigh, Lydford, Princetown (loop) |
Local impact and practical information
The presence of over a hundred riders means motorists and residents in the wider Teign Valley and Haldon areas may notice an increase in cyclists on country lanes during the day. If you live along the route and are planning travel that Sunday, a little extra time should allow for encountering groups of riders. Riders are advised to carry suitable repair kits, supplies and to follow the Highway Code.
Finishers of the longer Shore To Moor course will face a truly demanding day in the saddle; organisers have promised cream teas at the finish to welcome back riders. The event is run under the club’s usual guidance and is aimed at experienced cyclists for the 200km option, while the 100km route offers a substantial but achievable day out for well-prepared club and recreational riders.
Local cycling clubs and leisure riders usually use events such as this to test fitness, enjoy Devon’s lanes and raise the profile of cycle touring in the area. Newton Abbot’s Courtenay Centre will be the hub for registration and the start/finish facilities.
Further details, including final route sheets, start times and any last-minute arrangements, are available from the South Devon Cycle Touring Club and event organisers.
