IT?MAY?not be the Tour de France, but it is a Giant of a cycling event.

And if saddling up and riding over the sweeping South Downs sounds an enticing two-wheel challenge, now is the time to sign up.

The GSD Giant Sportive, which has its base in Petersfield after a move from Goodwood due to its improved transport links, is an established event.

On September 6, participants can tackle guided routes around the downs of 100, 62 or 30 miles, all setting off from Petersfield.

The courses have been redesigned for this year, and they pass through some of the prettiest villages and hamlets in the South.

“Riders will cycle by green rolling pastures, ancient woodlands, river valleys and wetlands,” enthused development director with GSD Allan Muir who last month completed the London to Paris event.

He added:?“A sportive is an on-road cycling endurance event where each participant is timed, although it is not a race so don’t worry too much about that.

“Some take their personal best seriously, but others prefer to enjoy the company of others in such beautiful surroundings, with leisurely stops at food stations and coffee shops.

“Lycra is certainly not mandatory.”

All proceeds from the event will go to the Droxford-based AGSD-UK charity, to improve the health of children with very rare medical conditions requiring strict attention to nutrition and exercise.

There are 14 genetic glycogen storage disorders which need close control to prevent severe muscle or major organ damage.

The ride next month, organised by volunteers to professional standards, is free for under-16s, but they must be accompanied by a cycling adult.

Fees range from £25 to £30 depending on the course chosen. You can sign up to the GSD?Giant via the website www.gsdgiant.org.uk or through the British Cycling webpage on www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/124026. Contact Allan via e-mail at: [email protected]