The Fred Whitton 2021: The UK's Hardest Sportive incl Chaos on Hardknott Pass! 184km & 3800m

[@ricardo_marmotti]

What a bunch of friendly people, both riders and spectators. Awesome.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Absolutely Richard, a really wonderful event organised by incredible supportive people, plus amazing local support, and attended by loads of very friendly cyclists 👌 One of my best ever days on the bike 💯

[@ashleyfryer2003]

Well done Phil 👍👏 I'm a local cyclist who also done the Fred. The weather really was a test of character this year so kudos to you. It really does fill me with a sense of pride and joy when people from around the country talk so kindly about our wonderful part of the world. Keep making great videos and hopefully I'll see you in the lakes sometime soon 👍🚴‍♂️🏞

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Ashley 🙏 And it’s a pleasure to be so passionate about your neck of the wood! I adore the Lake District - it’s got it all, and can’t wait to be back 👌🤩 Nice work for completing the Fred - it’s an extremely proud moment for us when we do it - and for sure I’ll keep making the vids, and maybe see you when I’m back up! 👍

[@MichaelBoogerd]

Lee was like a peak Ullrich seated in the big ring on Hardknotts! Well done guys!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

That’s very nicely put, Chris 👌. Lee is strong on another level to me - how he can turn big power at low cadence for time always amazes me 💯💪. Thanks ever so much 🙏

[@perrymaizon]

This guy just put a big smile on my face! So polite to everybody. Love it

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers, BADA BING 🙏 - so pleased you loved this vid - it was an incredible day for sure 👌🤩

[@simonnaylor9695]

Hats off to you Phil and Lee. Hard enough completing this event, but also capturing so much footage deserves a 1st class + .

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Simon 🙏 - that’s really good of you to say that 💯. I was very lucky to have Lee chaperone me around the route - and it’s a pleasure and a hobby to figure out how to capture what it feels like to ride the event 👌

[@n22pdf]

Wow Phil.. huge respect to you and Lee amazing efforts guys what a ride..chapeau

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Pete 🙏 - that’s very very kind of you indeed 👍💯. And max kudos to Lee for shepherding me around - there were a couple of moments on Kirkstone and after Cold Fell where I didn’t think I’d get around 😅

[@afroshredder]

I'm glad someone captured the epicness on camera! Very big day out on the bike and well done gents for getting round so well!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers afroshredder 🙏- really appreciate you saying that 💯👍. It’s a truly epic event - and a pleasure to film - the vistas and the cycling chaos make the job a lot easier 🤩

[@derx6666]

Epic ride in terrible weather. The way you were shaking there halfway mate... I didn't think you'd be able to finish that at that point. Massive kudo's to you and Lee, who is an absolute powerhouse.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Marco 🙏😊 - and for sure I thought I wasn’t going to make it round at the feed stop there 🥶. But was lucky to have the encouragement from Lee - who is seriously strong - a proper power house (ex mountain bike rider 💪)

[@PierreAlainMaire]

The level of epicness is high ! Congrats to you two & all other participants. And respect for saying thank you to the public and the people who worked to make it happen. Nice edit !

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Ahhh Pierre-Alain 😊! That’s hugely appreciated - was on another level of difficulty 😅. The people of the Lake District and the marshalls and organisers couldn’t have made us feel any more welcome - they were truly incredible - so max thanks always to them 💯🙏🙏. Jayne as ever says thanks on the edit ….it took about 10hours 😳

[@cdwilson12]

The angles you did some of the filming make it real how hard any part of this ridiculous ride is!! Huge kudos for completing it in such style.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much cwil 🙏 - I really appreciate you saying that. The different camera angles do bring to life the gradients and the slog (and the withered looks on the riders faces by Hardknott and Wrynose). Super kind of you 👍

[@muttley5958]

Amazing efforts lads total respect for such a beautiful but gruesome ride. And First Class is the wel deserved cherry on the cake. Well done to everyone who took part.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much, Muttley🙏. I was super lucky to have Lee shepherd me around the route - it’s one to pace carefully and leave enough energy for the 4 steep climbs - that’s for sure 🥵. Beautifully organised and very professional marshalling - super fortunate to have such incredible event organisers and support from the locals 👌

[@beermonster1234]

What a rollercoaster of emotion with the climbing you had to endure in some good ol’ fashioned Cumbrian weather. Very well done to both of you, thoroughly enjoyable watch from the comfort of my couch with a fairy tale ending in the sunshine of Grasmere. Lovely stuff!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Chris 🙏 - I hugely appreciate such a positive high energy comment 💯. For sure - near the top of Kirkstone I really did wander if I’d make it round the course - but Lee got me back on track (and the same after the rain on Cold Fell 😅). There’s nothing better than the U.K. countryside in the sunshine - and Grasmere is a very special place for me personally - love to see it dappled in sunlight 🤩

[@Grant-bu4nj]

Incredible cycling well done Can I ask what gearing did you use for this event

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Ian 🙏 - that’s super kind of you to say so! On the front I had a compact and on the rear a 30. However I’d suggest a 32 or 34 on the rear is better for this event 💯

[@paulhamblett7791]

Fantastic video phill and Jayne! And great camera work mister Lee Baxter!! Did feel like I had seen/heard some of it before 🤔🤔😉

[@jaynes6813]

Bet you feel like the lived through the edit this weekend Paul! Coming Next week “Hamblett goes Up a Hill”……

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

A sense of deja vu ehhhhh Paul 🤣 Thanks for putting up with our last minute edit on Sat !! 🙏

[@paulhamblett7791]

@@jaynes6813 haha.. was highly netertaining!! watching the magic behind the videos!! Most would pay for it, and I got it for free!! :):)

[@LeeGreenldgphotos]

Chapeu - Great video, thanks for sharing

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Lee 🙏 - out pleasure, they’re a lot of fun to film 💯

[@AG-io5wr]

Great video. Beautiful scenery. Cheers.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers, AG 🙏 - the Lake District never disappoints, love it 🤩

[@UK-Cycling]

Just seen this. You are a natural presenter👌A very entertaining video. Many compliments. Best regards Martin ps. It’s great you thank all the Marshalls and volunteers you see on the route🔝

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thank you, Martin - thats extremely generous of you to say so💯🙏. I really do love filming the events, the riders and the scenery - and the process of adding some voice is another opportunity for some creativity 👌. And agreed, the Marshalls and volunteers go way above and beyond - out there in all the weathers, to keep us on course and safe - it’s the least we can do 👍

[@geoffdillon]

I have my successful ballot entry. I’ve paid my fee. Now I let it get into my head. The footage and commentary here is going to be so helpful. Thanks.

[@geoffdillon]

Oh, and very well done. Lee was the Beast of Hardknott Pass.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Geoff 🙏 - super kind of you, and for sure Lee is the beast of The Lakes 💪💯. Congratulations on getting your ballet entry - it’s an incredible experience. Make sure you build the endurance and also some VO2 Max for the steepest slopes . Best of luck 🍀

[@sbsb4995]

Paradise 💖💜. What a beautiful place to ride.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Paradise indeed Sb Sb 🤩 - I absolutely adore the lakes - would love to live up there - but a little too far away from family … or work 😁.

[@barrygraham7598]

Brilliant Phil, really enjoyed the coverage. Kudos pal 👏

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Barry - that’s very much appreciated 🙏Sorry for the delay in my reply - had a bad crash 2 weeks ago 👍

[@barrygraham7598]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy ah not good 😐 hope you have a speedy recovery Phil 🙏 take care God bless 🙌 . Keep us updated on the channel 😊

[@TheGazavman]

18:02 How beautiful ! Cyclist paradise ? Thank you for sharing !

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

It is indeed a cyclist’s paradise, Saint 💯🤩. And the little part you allude to is perfection within paradise 👌. Our pleasure for sharing

[@TheGazavman]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy saturday I rode one kilometer at 15% it was tough so I imagine your race !!!

[@Baldy-hm5vs]

I've just watched the video of the 2021 Fred Whitton Challenge. You both passed me on the summit of Honister Pass. The weather was changeable to say the least. Despite the Weather, the Brutal Climbs & Sketchy Descents in the wet I loved it. This was my 3rd Assault and even though you wonder why you put yourself through it, the Accomplishment of crossing the finish line makes it all worth, I'll definitely apply again for 2022 🚴 😁 🚴‍♂️ 👍 🚴‍♀️

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Maximum respect for completing it 3 times, 68Baldy ✊✊✊ - thats a sensational achievement. I loved the day and the accomplishment - and like you say coming into the finish at Grasmere is a very special moment indeed 💯👌 I’ll likely wait a year or 2 before going for it again😅. The weather made it tough didn’t it - but was a silly error not to put the rain jacket on earlier - I wouldn’t have been half as cold if I’d put it straight on! Best of luck for number 4 in ‘22 🍀

[@triathloninspired]

It's a treat to watch your videos.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Ragavaniyer 🙏 - that’s incredibly generous of you to say so! And it’s a pleasure to make them! Am going to be posting a little more often going forward

[@AndrewBrown-em3ti]

All kinds of awesome Phil (and Lee). Epic landscape, conditions and weather. The scale of that challenge was totally apparent by the number of very good riders walking or struggling to maintain forward momentum. Thanks for all the videos this summer, loved all of them,

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Andrew 💯🙏 - really appreciate you saying that!! We’ve loved filming and editing the videos over the summer and have learned a lot in the process. This event is spectacular - must do for any cyclist in the UK - brutal, but beautiful - just need to have the right preparation / training, and hold back some energy for the really steep stuff. Hardknott at 145km - is a serious serious proposition 😅

[@gregcottam1397]

well done Phil, you did a great time, it took me an hour longer. did see you at the calder bridge feed station from a distance but my teeth were chattering too much from the cold to say hello! thanks for the video, good memories!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Greg 🙏 - and Kudos for getting it done✊. Was proper difficult - and I too was not exactly on good shape at that feed-stop!! Cold Fell in the freezing rain nearly did for me 🥶! But an amazing day and incredible memories 💯

[@sundieter5916]

Huge congrats 🎉🍾 🎉to you & Lee for an amazing endurance ride - much respect!!🤗👍🏼

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Sun Dieter 🙏 - and I hope all is well in Hawaii💯 Am super pleased to have got this one done - and very grateful to lee for shepherding me around 👍

[@sundieter5916]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy doing well in Hawaii…am a bit jealous of the fall temperatures that you are getting. I miss the cool days, have to get up extra early to try to beat the heat. Hope you and Jane are getting settled at your new home - keep up with your great rides/climbs 👍🏼

[@larrytsang8149]

What a ride Phil, absolutely incredible! Kudos are not enough for what you and Lee accomplished, I’ve never seen hills so steep!👊👊👊👊👊👊

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Larry 🙏 - thats incredible of you to say so 💯👍 I was very lucky to recce some of the climbs with Lee in the Summer - and have him on hand to guide me around, and for sure some of the ramps are even steeper when you see them IRL 😅

[@tombreen7927]

two machines climbing up them mountain passes massive Kudos Gentlemen!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Tom 🙏 - that’s very generous of you 💯. Lee is a lot stronger than me - I was lucky to have him shepherd me around 👍

[@monkeymerv]

Thanks for the memories, superb video! I also put the rain jacket way too late and ended up shivering at the second feed stop, although HardKnott certainly warmed me up! Fantastic day out 👌

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Congratulations for completing it, Mel 💪✊ - seriously tough! And I’m glad its not just me and Lee who made that little error 🤣 Hardknott certainly does get the blood warm though ….

[@9090Glenn]

looks sick - first time I have heard of this Sportive so thanks for the intro - looks stunning ride with some "gentle rolling hills" ......... UK style

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

You’ll love the “gentle rolling countryside” Glenn 😁 - definitely time to make your acquaintance with the Fred 💯 It’s on another level of organisation, support, beauty … and challenge - absolute perfection 👌🤩

[@tonystrange7224]

Cracking video Phill and an incredible, no doubt emotional day in some trying weather conditions. Those climbs are bad enough without the wet roads. Nothing but my total admiration and respect to you Phill. You absolutely bossed it. And topped off with the trophy of a Scandinavian loaf. Chapeau Sir 💪👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Always a pleasure to hear from you Tony 💯 - and that’s a super super kind compliment thanks 🙏. Yes it was the selection of climbs - with the sheer gradients allied to the distance and the range of different weathers that made it such a challenge - and at the feed stop before Hardknott - I thought I was not going to make it around 🥶. But Lee shepherded me safely there - and the legs played ball 😅. And true - that Scandinavian loaf was on another level all together 👌👌👌👌👌. Hope all is well Sir 👍

[@tonystrange7224]

All well here Phill, thank you for asking 🙏 Stay safe.

[@robincooney1263]

Thanks for this, great video and I love the on-screen graphics. For anyone thinking of doing the Fred Whitton, a bit of a heads up. As I'm sure you know, GPS calculated gradients are very inaccurate once the road gets steep. There are stretches of all these climbs which are WAY steeper than shown on screen, well over 25% and even over 30% in places. Very important for us cyclists who are north of 85kg - I need well over 350 watts just to keep moving forward on Hardknott 😕

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Our pleasure Robin 💯 - and thanks ever so much 🙏. Very good points you make - because there is always a lag in the gradient shown on screen vs the one in real life - and for sure some of them are steeper - plus hard to traverse given loose gravel / moss / damp . Sustaining 350W up that demands max respect Sir ✊

[@Z-u-m-a]

Great video. Well done guys.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Rob 🙏 - without doubt the best event in the U.K. and one of the best in the world 💯

[@harrimi]

Wonderful sunshine to end what appears a very challenging day. I don’t how you do it Phill. Great to see the lakes from a cycling point of view. Great editing (Jane I guess👍) and commentary once again.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Hi Mark - hope all is well for you and the family 💯👍. And for sure - was a hard hard old day. Loved it - brutal and beautiful, but I don’t have many of those in me 😅 Jayne excelled on the edit - so thanks for saying - took about 10 hours ! ✊

[@richardwhalen4624]

You make big efforts so enticing with your commentary! I need to prescribe your training recommendations ever I have the opportunity to ride that one. Sensational as ever!!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thats really lovely of you too say that Richard 🙏 - and for sure I’d recommend getting up to the lakes in the new year and giving some of these beasts a try. I reckon a strong base but also some high intensity training is essential - such as 40:20s and 60:30s plus some 1-3min VO2 max efforts 👍

[@GiorgioCoppolaCycling]

That looks like an incredible ride… brings back memories of when I was in the lakes in the summer, that low cadence grind and the killer climbs 😅 Can’t wait to go back after watching this! Great video Phil 👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Giorgio - definitely one of the rides I’m most proud of - and it was thanks to Lee that I made it round. He lives in the area (near Fangs Brow) - and is THE MASTER of seated low cadence at threshold - it’s a sight to behold (he’s an ex mountain biker by the way). The Lakes, Peaks, North Wales and Exmoor are all epic places to ride a bike - so no doubt I’ll be back there next year also 🤩👌💯

[@jeromemariaud1856]

good job Phil and Lee! The level of concern was..high!!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Jerome 🙏 - and there is no doubt, at points the level of concern was at a peak !!! 🤣

[@The8mile123]

Lee, what a hard man, great effort, hats off to both off you! 💪💪💪

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

You said it perfectly Paul 💯👍 - Lee is as tough as nails and an absolute Gentleman at the same time 💪. Thanks ever so much - super kind of you 🙏

[@paulwilliams4990]

Massive kudos for doing that I can only dream of doing something like that.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Paul 🙏 - that’s hugely appreciated 💯. And for sure about a year ago I could not have done this either - but the recces in the summer and the practice on the steep stuff plus some base building and a lot of support from Lee got me around 👍. Definitely something to build to 👌

[@heinz-dieteroelmann9960]

thank you for this wonderful presentation, which made me remember the 2019 edition, when I could take part... I would love to come back - you know, I needed more than 10hours... but I loved the Fred, I loved the Lake District... best wishes from Haltern am See... :=)))

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Great to hear from you all the way from the Rhine, Heinz-Dieter 💯 - and so so pleased you love this little slice of English cycling paradise 🤩. Respect to getting all the way over and completing it in 2019, and hopefully 2022 will be a year where you and Fred can reacquaint ! 🤞

[@brianlathan2465]

First class 👏👏 respect to anyone who takes on that challenge , great video 👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Brian 🙏 - first class indeed !! got to love a good certificate 😁. Really appreciate your positive energy 💪

[@vauno_83]

This looks awesome dude, massive kudos on the climbs. Big well done and great vid again

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Jason - that’s hugely appreciated Sir 🙏💯- was a proper tough day in and out the saddle 😅

[@vauno_83]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy i bet, it looked it with it been wet and slippery also. Great job 👏

[@paulb8627]

great video, a joy to watch

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Paul 🙏 we hugely appreciate your super kind encouragement 💯

[@bootsy7846]

Excellent !...I was signed up for this but alas an 11th hour injury put paid to that...now rescheduled for May 22. The ride detail inc efforts , stats/numbers and real emotion make this a complete ride report which will go a long some way to aid in my preparation for the next May's event..... excellent 👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Ever so sorry to hear about your injury Bootsy 😫 - and wishing you a full recovery! It may be a blessing in disguise, because the weather may be better. Am super grateful for your very kind comment 🙏 - and really pleased the video will help your own assault on the Fred 💪 Best of luck with the prep 🍀

[@jemjones563]

Well well well Mr Lovett - where to start!? Glad your day picked up considerably after dropping your sunglasses, camera and forgetting to put your rain cape on until already wet . Really well done and as always superbly captured and edited. Really enjoy seeing the bond you and Lee have created - much respect chaps. Jem

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

😊 Thanks Jem 🙏💪 - massively appreciate you saying that! Jayne and I love the process of making these vids 👌. Yep - this was a proper tough old day - and on Kirkstone I really did think it wasn’t going to be my day - and same again at the cold cold feedstop before Hardknott 💯. But to your point - Lee is an absolute Gent - and very strong rider and leader - so I was super lucky to have him coax me around ✊💪. I’ll be back in the Lakes in the new year 🤞

[@jemjones563]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy thanks for the reply sir ... In a funny sort of way Hardknotts might have come at the right time to warm you up!? Glad you bit enjoy the editing process.. we love watching them! Technical question re bike gearing...have you had to change yours at all with the marmotte, Wales and the Fred? Or is it just a standard gearing ?

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@jemjones563 Lee stuck me on the front to hit some tempo in and out the saddle for the 10km to Hardknott - and that got the blood warmed up just in time….. the flats to give some recovery. I never change the gearing. The Colnago is a Compact on the front and a 32 on the rear, whilst the Wilier is a 52:36 on the front and a 30 on the rear. I reckon both more than meet my needs - including on the flat. The Wilier gearing was perfect for Marmotte - never ran out of gears. And was just as good on the super steep stuff for the Fred as the Colnago with the 32 on the rear. If I was focussed on flatter crit races with sprints, I’d run a shorter rear derailleur and a 28 on the back.

[@global_nomad.]

great video, thankyou...will be doing the Fred in may 22 having deferred my entry (and Marmotte+Etape in July)....so lets hope theres no rain ...i think we've all done the 'it'll pass, cannot be bothered to stop for the jacket" thing...

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Nice brace of events Global Nomad 👌 - I’m going to do a comparison video in a month or 2. Very tough events - one attritional and absolutely draining but no big spikes of power needed - and the other less elevation but moment of sheer incredulity at the gradients and power needed ! 👍. Thanks ever so much - and indeed the rain coat lesson has been well and truly learned 🤣

[@markbentley4343]

Congratulations Phil. Wow all those Vo2 efforts must have taken their toll towards the end. Massive kudos to you both for lasting it out and posting such a good time 💪👍🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️.. Very different challenge to La Marmotte…

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Mark 🙏 - and you hit the nail on the head - it’s the repeated VO2 max efforts (and the cold rain….) that makes this so different to La Marmotte . Both super tough - but in very different ways

[@Dadssoccerschool]

Absolutely fantastic effort.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Olly - thats super kind of you to say so! 🙏 Happy Christmas

[@Dadssoccerschool]

Can I ask what type of camera you use to record your onboard footage? I’m ideally after a camera/light combo like the Cycliq Fly12 but think they may have been discontinued…

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@Dadssoccerschool hi Olly - I have to accept the extra weight of the GoPro - I always carry 2 on my bike and x2 spare batteries - I use an 8 and 9 - they are excellent 👌

[@quetzocoal]

It’s gorgeous scenery!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Agreed Alex - I adore the Lake District 🤩 Sorry for the delay in my reply - had a bad crash 2 weeks ago 👍

[@quetzocoal]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy sorry to hear that get better soon

[@crankgreenwatts]

Very well done Phil 👏 Rhythm is a Dancer on those pedals 🕺

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Phil 🙏😊 - thats really lovely of you 👍. And no choice for that event but to Snap! out of the saddle and get dancing on those pedals 😁

[@gibbie1990]

I'm lucky to have done "The Fred" twice. Both times in glorious weather. Couldn't imagine tackling hardknot in the wet. Kudos!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Matthew 🙏 - and kudos on your double ✊✊. Yep - the 2.5hours of rain did make life a tad less uplifting for a while 😅

[@markdeans6444]

I had the pleasure of doing it in hail (and sun, and rain, and wind, and … bloody Fred). Great ride!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@markdeans6444 In the hail and rain would have been hellish on the steep bits , Mark 😳 - nicely done for getting it done ✊

[@juanito.cycling]

Great video! Greetings from Mexico by a Colombian. By the way, the red snack that you ate at min 11 is called in Colombia "Bocadillo" and is a widely used cyclist food!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Juanito 🙏 - that’s hugely appreciated 💯. Appreciate the heads up - and I can report that a Bocadillo helped me charge up the Col de la Madone today in France - absolutely incredible cycling food

[@bazanderson8283]

Kudos for completing, double kudos for doing it with a camera in one hand for a substantial part of the ride!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Baz 🙏 - I hugely appreciated you reaching out ! And for sure the cameras make life a little more complex - but I do love the process of capturing the moment 🤩

[@erikhedb]

Well done and a really nice video 😊

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Erik 🙏 - really appreciate you saying that. One of my favourite parts of the U.K. - and for sure an excellent and really well run event 👍

[@robjones2613]

Another quality video what a brutal sportive. I think you’ve put me off it 😂👍👍well done Completing it👌

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Rob 🙏 - we hugely appreciate that ! Brutal and spectacular for sure 🤩 It’s definitely one to train hard for - but worth it should you change your mind 💯

[@marksmith566]

Well done to both of you, incredible effort and incredible video, best thing we watched all night and we watched a lot 🚴🏼‍♂️🚴🏼‍♂️💪🙌👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thats a massive compliment and thanks ever so much Mark 💯🙏🙏 - very motivating for Jayne and I 👍. We love making the videos, and it makes it even better with such positive support 🙏

[@joshuadavis3258]

Huge Kudos to you both Phil! great work 👍👏

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Joshua 🙏 - an amazing day out 💯

[@grahamhaines9931]

Top ride! Well done!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Graham 🙏 that’s lovely of you to say so 👍. Was proper tough 😅

[@chrissinclair6086]

Well done Phill and Lee. Helmets off.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Chris! 🙏 Helmets off indeed! For a while 🤣

[@SILVERSNOWMAN72]

That looked truly challenging......but as ever you remained the 'unflappable Phill...(& Lee)'....awesome going! I've never seen so much support from the organisers and spectators on a sportive, wonderful to see. Signing up for next year???

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Wayne 🙏. And I hope you are starting to recover your health? Yep - was the most challenging selection of climbs, weather, distance I’ve yet encountered 😅 - but I was super lucky to have the support and encouragement from Lee - and also the organisation of the event is incredible - as is the support from the local community - on another level. Very very special 👌. Not likely to do it in 2022 - but one day 💯

[@SILVERSNOWMAN72]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy twice in 2 years would be excessive I agree, well done again a super challenging route for sure. I hurt my back helping a customer move a new matress, extremely frustrating trying to be helpful! On the plus I have a week of soon for some recovery then back to the bike!! Take care.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@SILVERSNOWMAN72 ohhh Wayne 😳😫. Bad luck - but the good karma from helping folk and being a decent guy, will work with you soon 💯 Enjoy being back on the bike

[@kevstephen9393]

Well done guys, looks absolutely brutal.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Kev 🙏 - brutal and beautiful (when not raining ) was the name of the game 😳🤩

[@ianpattison6643]

Great video. I’ve ridden the Fred four times and may have to return one day

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Wow - the double double ✊✊✊✊ - seriously impressive Ian 💪. And thanks ever so much 🙏 - I too will do it again (but not next year 😅)

[@ianpattison6643]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy I’ve been trying to get under 7 hours and missed it by just a few minutes last time. I’ll keep trying!

[@gdrp87]

Congratulations Gentlemen 👏👏👏

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much gdrp 🙏 - an incredible part of the world 🤩

[@paullacy9406]

Great video. Well done chaps. 1st class effort 😂🥳👏👏

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Paul 🙏👍 - that’s massively appreciated Sir !! Certificates and cake is the new medals and cake 🤣

[@nickbrownbill3413]

Phill that video was amazing. The quality of content you're putting out (and huge shout out to Jane's editing!) is unrivalled mate. Loved a good bit of Lee Baxter, the Tim DeClercq of the Lake District, happily leading you wherever you need to go. Need to get myself and my bike up there for sure.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Nick 🙏 - that’s beyond kind of you!! Jayne is super happy with the compliment too!! Nice comparison for Lee - he is indeed as strong as an ox - and keen to hit your Giro de Wales 💪. So for sure you need to get accross and up to him … but as you know Hardknott isn’t as hard as Cowlyd 😳😁. Wrynose from the other direction is perfection 🤩

[@alexspencer7170]

Good job! I remember doing the Fred back in 2014, you're totally right, that 10% bit in the middle of Hardknott feels 2% at most!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Alex 🙏 - and nice one yourself - it’s one big milestone to get under the belt 💯 no doubt about it - that section must be the only Strava segment with a 10% gradient called the Cruising Section 🤣 - but it does feel good 👌

[@147AndyH]

Cool video, loved seeing parts of it again, first Fred for me, loved all the hills, climbed them all, excellent event and scenery wasn't it, ha you pass me at 5 mins 45 🙂

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers, Andrew 🙏 - Super kind of you to say so👍. Congratulations on completing it - a tough old day to say the least 😅 And for sure - amazing organisation and stunning scenery - loved it 🤩

[@jasonwillicombe8740]

Great viewing Phil, watching yourself and Lee on a challenge that I could only dream of being able to complete - Kudos to you both 💪😀

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much J 🙏 - I don’t have your power though 💪 Hope you and Ros are enjoying your new home and location - some epic rides going down on Strava 🤩

[@jasonwillicombe8740]

Yes it a nice area here - discovering Dartmoor and surrounding hills - not a lot of flat once inland. Now with a gravel bike there is additional exploring being carried out 😂 - I am looking forward to riding Exmoor again though.

[@GazzaView123]

Great video! I did the Fred 4 times, 2015 to 2018, due to injury marshalled on the 2019 event, then marshalled again at the Grasmere showground car parking this year. Hope I'll be injury free for the 2022 Fred!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much for marshalling and making for such an incredible event Edd 🙏 - and kudos for completing it 4x !!!! ✊✊✊✊ - thats huuuuuge ! Really wish you the best of health for 2022 🍀

[@Spikey_Mikey]

Brilliant Video and massive kudos for completing every climb 👏 especially in those wet cold conditions, the views do help though 🌄🏞🚵‍♀️

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Michael 🙏 - I hugely appreciate your super kind encouragement and support - 💯 And there is no doubt that the vistas and also the camaraderie of all the other cyclists slogging it out plus the incredible support from the locals and the organisers and marshals with the cow bells make it a hell of a lot more fun and easier 💪✊

[@markhancock7527]

You guys made the climbs look easy ,having Done Honister newlands & whinlatters from both sides over the years & not always getting to the top without stopping there not easy.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Mark 🙏 - and I can certainly report that I found Honister, Wrynose and Hardknott to be super super tough 😅 And when we did the recce in the summer, even Lee confided to me that he hasn’t always made it to the top of Hardknott ! Albeit that’s because he went too hard at the bottom bit 😁

[@markhancock7527]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy i haven't tried Hardknots yet i rode Newlands & whinlatters this year again in August but didn't get up Newlands going towards Buttermere my tire skipped on wet tarmac when i was out of the saddle so i got off.You need to have a trip to Arran & Mull in Scotland some nice roads & climbs there

[@htukmumfie]

i have maximum respect for anyone who completes this route without dabbing a foot on any climb👍. maybe one day i'll do it. (i managed the lakeland loop a few years back which is similar but misses out kirkstone, honister and newlands: but facing hardknott after all that elevation in the fred is next level)

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Paul 🙏 - that’s extremely kind of you to say so 💯😊. Was a very very tough challenge for sure - and our outing for The Struggle Dales set the standard for challenging - that was proper proper difficult also 😅. The good thing about where Hardknott comes in the route is that there has been a decent transition to get there (plus Cold Fell is ok …. if not raining) and at the feed stop 3 flapjacks and a guava bar seemed to bring me back to life just in time 😅

[@qua000705]

Wow. Just... wow.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Chris 🙏 - super kind of you 💯

[@TheSimong69]

wow what a great vlog

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Simon 🙏 - thats massively appreciated 💯👍

[@gunnardalen4405]

Thx, for another great vlog Phil👌 And a incredible effort from you and Lee as well🥇 This worked for me as a great motivation when I was doing my first century ride on zwift yesterday😀 Keep them coming Phil, and congratulation to you and Lee for completing this Sportive, respect👏👌

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

That’s massively appreciated Gunnar 🙏- and we’re super happy that it helped you through your first century 💯. Congratulations - many more to come. My first 100 was also on Zwift 💪. Plenty more to come 👍

[@bobbenson6302]

Well done!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Bob 🙏 - thats super kind of you !

[@TurneyUK]

Brings back memories of doing ‘The Fred’ back in 2017. Great day. Thankfully it was dry, I imagine it would be a bit grim in the wet. Some of those roads were an eye opener, especially the descents, seen nothing like that anywhere else in the UK or abroad for that matter. If you come off you’d be in a world of hurt, which as it happens seems to be fairly common.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks TurneyUK 🙏- and nice work Sir for getting the Fred ticked off ✊. Yep - nicer in the dry, and the steep descents are seriously technical - and we went super super slow. There was a nasty crash behind us on Hardknott - carbon rim brakes failed - but luckily lots of marshals on hand to help and get medical assistance. Very well organised

[@leedixon2113]

Been looking forwards to this one!!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Lee 🙏 - hope it lives up to expectation 🤞. Was a long while in the edit (we’ve had a bit of a backlog - and it was a complex one 😅)

[@leedixon2113]

Didn't disappoint, thanks for another great video, and of course; well done on the ride.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@leedixon2113 Cheers Lee 🙏- super pleased you enjoyed ! 💯

[@smccarthy1975]

2 monsters , great job gents 🚴🏼💪

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Sean! 🙏 And Lee is indeed on another level - monstering the power seared and low cadence 💪💪 - I had a few little wobbles - so very much the junior monster of that day 👿 😁

[@TheDomLouis]

Another Epic video of an Epic Sportive!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Dominique 🙏 - it’s a truly special event - amazing organisation - incredible support and a super super challenging route ! Loved it - recommended Sir !

[@gregdelves3615]

Four seasons in one day. You chaps smashed it! Nice to have such an amiable companion but as much as the cake looked delicious i think a beer would have been on the menu…

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Greg 🙏 - with Lee’s encouragement we prevailed ! Very true - an I’ve cold beer or two would have been perfect - but had to drive straight back down to London that afternoon - work was beckoning 😫

[@DarenC]

A good effort! I've been very lucky with weather both times I did the Fred - glorious sunshine and high 20s Celsius. I imagine it's rather a tougher challenge in grim weather, especially as it took me two hours more than you! (Walked up a good stretch of both Hardknott and Wrynose to boot.) Kudos to Lee for the Red Dwarf reference at the end too. :D

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

In the summer there are few places better than the Lakes - absolutely spectacular 🤩 - and kudos for getting it done x2, Daren 💪. I was super lucky to have Lee shepherd me around - made a big difference - he’s a lovely guy - and as you say, sharp as a pin 📌 💯.

[@daveyandgina]

Signed up for May, doubt I'll be categorised as first class though :D Actually terrified.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Nice one Dave 👍💯🚀 - it’s an incredible day out, and will provide a big challenge at different points. Make sure you build both your endurance and also VO2 max for the steeper gradients - plus eat well the day before and plenty during the event ! Best of luck 🍀

[@jinx6493]

Phenomenal ride with stunning views, however the most impressive thing is how your bike handling skills have come on leaps and bounds! Incredible video and editing as always 🍻👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

I hugely appreciate you saying that Jinx 🙏💯 - all the time riding out has helped with my skills on the climb (my descending is still not the best though 😅). Jayne really appreciates you calling out the edit - was a super complex one - but worth it for all the views 🤩

[@keithmyerscough9900]

Looks brutal . Well done to all 👍🚴👍🚴

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Keith🙏 - it’s an absolute beast of a route - but stunning and so worth the effort 🤩 Generally I highly recommend a visit to the Lakes 💯

[@Black_swan_incoming]

Just found you guys. Great vid

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Pleased to meet you, Brett 👍 - Thanks ever so much for checking it out! Plenty more to come 💯

[@stephenpritchard6661]

That looked tough, weather didn’t look like it helped either!! Good to see Lee having raced with him quite a bit on Zwift recently 👍👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Proper tough one that Stephen - and the weather was just like the first 2 hours of our ride - character building I’m assured 🤣. Lee is a much stronger rider than me - so a great guy to be racing with. Are you the same WTRL team?

[@stephenpritchard6661]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Yes in the same WTRL team together, he’s an incredibly strong rider and consistently finishing in the top 10 every week

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@stephenpritchard6661 awesome - great team 👌. And it doesn’t surprise me . Looks seriously hard this year - the WTRL 😳

[@TrainDriverRob]

Great vlog once again, massive respect to you and Lee for smashing it! I need to get this one ‘in the bag’, but would need a bit of sunshine to keep me going ☀️

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Hi Rob - and thanks ever so much 🙏 Agreed with a bit less rain it would have been a fair bit more pleasant based on experience in June during the recce when we were blessed with amazing weather . Definitely worth a little recce before you go for it - gave me more confidence on the really steep stuff 💯

[@karlstine2065]

I really like the way you Brits shrug off pain.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Karl 🙏 - an incredible event, but for sure the steep climbs bite 🥵

[@IanB17]

Great video Phil 👍🏻 Rather foolishly I think I’m gonna make this a target for next year. Fear I’m biting off more then a I can chew but having seen the number of riders walking at least I’d be in good company! Sterling effort, chapeau.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Ian 🙏 - hugely appreciated. It’s a great objective for you next year - and plenty of time to train. Definately get the base built but do some high intensity work with the 30:30s 40:20s etc and some 2-3mins VO2 efforts. And get the nice climbing gearing installed - a compact with a 32 will be good (may need a longer rear derailleur) 👍 Best of luck with the prep 🍀

[@IanB17]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Great advice as usual Phil, I think you should become my coach! 😂

[@duanehicks1960]

Your Wilier is sweet!!! I'm sure it helped with climbing the "ramps" as you Brits call them!!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Duane 🙏 - and for sure the Wilier climbs like a dream ! Ramps is indeed the word - they come in all shapes and sizes, all of them steep some of them disgustingly so 🤣

[@gedrooney9305]

We are riding from Headingley to Whitehaven via Hardknock Pass in 2 weeks..the steepest hill I’ve climbed is still Sutton Bank..

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Make sure you have good gearing - a 28 or 30 on the rear cassette will be far too hard. Try and fit a 32 or 34 if your rear derailleur is long enough . Enjoy 👍

[@gedrooney9305]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy I’m riding on my 90’s Ribble steely 653 frame rather than my R5…no mercy! ;)

[@lindenflint9008]

Super film. What happened with the orange and lemon cake?

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Linden 🙏 - much appreciated💯. My other half inhaled it 🤣

[@geoffking2425]

You should try some Granfondos is Portugal. Amazingly well organised events with closed or virtually closed roads

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Cheers Geoff - and for sure I’d love to do that. Paul Hamblett spent 10days out there on September - and I’m keen to get out. Thanks for the tip on the closed road Fondos - makes a big difference to the event 💯👌

[@malcolmhodgson7540]

Chapeau!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks ever so much Malcolm - that’s hugely appreciated 🙏

[@DanielMooreDJ]

4:11 "Unlucky mate" is just adding salt to the injury. I would be pissed lol

[@Hotshotzwifting]

Great video Phil , you actually got me on the video coming into Ambleside. Any tips for me for next year would be great 👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Thanks Tony 🙏 -that’s super kind of you 👍 And glad we got you on film 💯. I think my biggest tip is the one I discussed on Hardknott - you need the bursts of power out the saddle to get up the steepest ramps on Honister, Newlands, Hardknott and Wrynose - so the 60:30s and 40:20s are helpful. As is getting practice in on the steep stuff. The recce I did with Lee on some of these climbs (over 2 different days) helped me realise the gravity of the task. And then building the base fitness was the final element. Also riding with someone the whole way around it a big help - moral support 👍

[@Hotshotzwifting]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy thanks Phil , will check out 60-30 & 40-20 on sufferfest. Luckily for me I live in the Lake District, so I do plan on hitting the hills . Hope your house move went ok 👍

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

@@Hotshotzwifting perfect ! You lucky lucky man !! 🤩

[@yeahbuddy4712]

Whooooa is that the weather in uk. Portugal we still riding in very sunny days around 25 temperatures. Can't imagine wanting to go out in this condition..you guys are tough and wearing shorts🥶🥶🥶

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

That was the weather in mid September ….. it’s way worse now 🤣 …… super jealous of you cruising around the beautiful roads of Portugal 🤩

[@gamma_dablam]

There was a bus and a lot of walkers when I was going up Honister at approx 9am ! Somehow stayed on the bike even with the trouble of keeping my front wheel grounded ! The good thing is the queue was relatively ok when I was at FS1 so I got some squash. Seems like it was carnage.

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Wow, Austin !!! I’m surprised they have a bus route up that 🤯. Yep - stuck behind a massive lump of slow moving steel is proper emotional when trying to pedal in a straight line at 20% 😅. Nice one for getting it done - I’m guessing you hit Hardknott in the driving rain?

[@gamma_dablam]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy nope when I hit Hardknott it was pretty much bone dry ! I got to Hardknott at about half 2 because I was shattered after Braithwaite. Made it up to the cattle grid and maybe could've gone a bit further if i'd stuck with it but I had no chance of going the full way. Did manage to ride the middle section and the very end but not the steep ramps.

[@Millomite]

Wise decision setting off a bit later!! I left around 6:30 and from Cold Fell to Blea Tarn was miserable!!!!

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

Massive respect for getting round all of that part of the course in the driving rain, Amberquest ✊. We were lucky that it started after Winlatter and then eased off just after the feedstop pre Hardknott - so made the the toughest part of the ride a bit more manageable 😅.

[@Millomite]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy my brother was on cold fell with two bottles for me. I almost threw the bike in the car and went home 😂

[@BikeRacingWithoutMercy]

That’s exactly how I felt on Cold Fell - proper sorry for myself 🤣

[@Millomite]

@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy cramp hit me on Honister. I was nursing it round for the rest. Awful