THE BALHAM ROUGH STUFF

3 November 2024

In 1925, Balham CC held a ride that took in some of the most challenging terrain on the North Downs. By the 1930s it had become one of the most prestigious races on the national calendar, attracting some of the biggest names in cycling.
Using old race reports and the recollections of those on the scene when it met its demise in the 1960s, we’ve re-planned the Balham Rough Stuff.

This year we have a changed format for the Club’s traditional end of season celebration ride with a new venue and altered route.

The route is now shorter at 30km (18.6 miles) but still with 470m ascent. Sticking with tradition there are a few choice stretches of trails and tracks to complete. The figure of eight circuit starts and finishes on Clarks Lane, and slaloms along the top of the North Downs. Some of you will recognise we tackle Norheads Lane in the opposite direction this time round. It’s a real challenge!

The Rough Stuff remains a team event (teams of 4) Sign-on Sheet
This year there will be awards for:
Wettest / Dirtiest Rider
Best Dressed Team
Most Mechanicals
Furthest Off Route
The awards will be announced at the completion of the ride at The Titsey Brewery.

FORMAT

7.30am meet at BHP for 7.45am roll out to Titsey Brewery using the Westerham social ride route.

9am pre-ride coffees at the Titsey Brewery and ride briefing.

9.30-9.45am Rough Stuff start.

The route finishes back at the Titsey Brewery where the Club will put on coffee and a pastry / cake for all riders and members who attend.