Borderland500: Final Instructions

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey!

As you prepare to embark on the Borderland500, we want to provide you with some final instructions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Before You Start:

• Check Your Equipment: Double-check that your bike is in tip-top condition and that you have all the necessary gear, including spare tubes, tools, and clothing. (The temperature after dark has dropped a lot over the last couple of days. Remember to pack the right clothing if riding at night)
• Familiarize Yourself with the Route: Review the route maps and elevation profiles. Plan your rest stops and sleeping arrangement. RideGPS routes were updated on the 10th September for the Full pint. 9th July for the Half & Quarter pint routes. Make sure you have the correct route on the GPS device.)
• Safety First: Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet (essential). Also a Hi-Viz Garment is mandatory when riding at night. Be mindful of traffic and follow all road rules.
• Lights: Rear lights must be turned on for the entire time you are riding, front lights should be switched on as soon as visibility starts to get poor.
• Be Prepared: Consider all weather conditions, we are in the UK after all, its going to rain at some point! Also, temperatures have started to drop during the evening.  

Parking: SY41HY

• Designated Car Park: There is a separate car park for Borderland500, which will be clearly signposted. It is located opposite the entrance to Riverside cabins. Please be cautious when arriving and leaving the area. The carpark is off road on a field, it will be slippery.  Flags and lights will be at the entrance. A portaloo will also be available at the carpark.  

Venue:

• Riverside Cabins: Borderland500 is being held at Riverside Cabins, a picturesque location that will enhance your experience.
• Respectful Behaviour: Please be mindful of other guests who may be staying at the venue prior to the finish date. Avoid disturbing private areas that are clearly marked.

Start Times:

• Confirm Your Start Time: Please ensure you have the correct start time logged. A member of the Borderland500 team will be at the start area to meet you and hand over trackers 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. (Please watch the videos at the bottom of this page, for information on the trackers)
• Rules & Waiver: You must sign the waiver to say you have read and agree to the rules. This will be checked before you set off.

During the Ride:

• Pace Yourself: The Borderland500 is a long-distance event. It’s important to pace yourself and listen to your body. Take regular breaks and hydrate properly. (It is essential to rest and sleep. We advise a minimum sleep period of 4 Hours every 24hours.)
• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet to maintain energy levels. Bring plenty of snacks and water. (Food stops are few and far between during the night)
• Checkpoints: Utilize the checkpoints along the route for rest, refreshments, and assistance. A Borderland500 flag will be at each checkpoint with a stamp to mark your Brevet cards. If you wish, Date & Time the arrival at each Checkpoint, these will be great to keep to remember the fun you had! The final checkpoint will be available from 18:30 on 20^th September. This has a kitchen area with tea, coffee, and some basic supplies for you to help yourselves. Also, a space for a sleeping bag! This checkpoint will close around 11AM on the 21st September
• Emergency Contact: Have an emergency contact person and their number readily available.

Scratching from the Event:

• Unable to Continue: If you decide you cannot ride any further for any reason, please notify us immediately. You can reach us by:
  • Text message: +447700154064
  • Email: Info@borderland500.com
  • Return your tracker either by post or return at the finish. 

After the Ride:

• Celebrate: Once you finish, take time to celebrate your accomplishment. Share your experience with others and encourage them to join us next year.
• Food/Drinks: Pizzas will be available to all riders from 4PM on 21^st September. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know prior to the event. A coffee van will also be at the finish to supply you with hot drinks. Beers will also be available for each rider supplied by Ridley Bikes. A pop up bar will also be open between 4pm & 10pm. 

• Trackers: Make your way back to the finish and place your trackers in the drop boxes provided. Failure to return your tracker will result in a £100 charge. 

Additional Tips:

• Enjoy the Scenery: The Borderland 500 offers breath-taking views. Take time to appreciate the beauty of the region.
• Connect with Other Riders: Meet new people and share your cycling stories.
• Take Photos: Capture those moments that you will not get again. Not just the highs, but also the lows.
• Social media: Use social media to show us all your journey. Tag #Borderland500 on Instagram,  Join the Facebook & Strava  groups to keep up to date with other riders stories. 

We wish you a safe and successful journey!

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the ride. Good luck!