Riding against professional teams, they had to cover just under 90 km, including 2,050m of incredibly steep climbs and a precariously difficult downhill with large rocks, deep ruts and a sheer drop on the left.

Robin Ovenden and Russell Crowder finished the stage in 6.16.32 hr and lie 146th in the men’s section while masters team Ian Cabot and Tim Hubert clocked 7.21.39 hr for 133rd. Around 1,200 cyclists have entered.