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The Etape du Dales is a cyclosportive held in May each year, in the Yorkshire Dales in the UK. It was originally established as an alternative to the oversubscribed Fred Whitton Challenge; like the Fred Whitton, the Etape du Dales is a long day's ride over steep hills, and the proceeds go to charity - the Dave Rayner fund.
It is ranked as one of the most popular and challenging sportives in the UK, covers 112 miles with 10,000ft of climbing and is considered one of the top ten rides in the UK.
In 2010, Malcolm Elliott set a course record of 5h, 43m, 24s.
Raynet provide communications support.
Route
The Etape du Dales route is considered challenging.
The route starts and finishes at Wharfedale rugby club in Grassington. The route has varied slightly over time, but now includes Fleet Moss, Tan Hill Inn (the highest pub in England), Buttertubs Pass, and Coal Road. In 2009, the route was 175km, with around 3500m of ascents; in 2011, the total distance is 180km.
A shorter, gentler route, known as the Presidents Ride, is also available.