Organisers of a popular cycle event in Marlow say this year’s route is a “beast” that will test even the most hardened competitor.

The Red Kite Ride, organised by cycling club Marlow Riders, will see competitors take on a 126-mile course which winds its way through the Chilterns when it returns for its fourth outing on September 6.

Former Olympic medallist Willi Moore, who has designed four different routes for different skill levels, said the longest will prove a difficult ride.

He said: “Some riders last year said that the 100 mile event was not challenging enough. So this is a very much more beefy route. The first 50 miles are hardly flat at all.

“It’s going to take a very fit rider to complete this in an average of more than 20 miles an hour.”

The Red Kite Ride will round off an exciting summer of cycling for Marlow, after it was announced the final stage of this year’s Women’s Tour of Britain will start from the town in June before heading through the Chilterns.

The new route includes new climbs including notorious hills at Whyteleaf and Wardrobes Lane.

Event director Steve Tolmie called the 126-mile challenge “a beast”, but reassured riders there is a course to suit all abilities.

And with the ride selling out in each of its first three years, capacity this year will be increased to 700.

Marlow Riders, who operate from Marlow Sports Club, have amassed over 170 members since forming five years ago.

Last year, The Red Kite Ride raised over £5000 for charity Cyclists Fighting Cancer, with the cause chosen again this year after the club lost three members to cancer in the past year.

For more details or to enter, visit http://marlowredkiteride.co.uk/