SOWERBY CROFT LANE

SOWERBY BRIDGE

I first raced this climb, otherwise known as the V998, in 1991 at the Condor Road Club open hill climb. The winner that day was Chris Boardman, who took home £10 for his efforts. The very same man who just seven months later went on to win gold at the Barcelona Olympics – what a contrast. Rolling away from the A58 on Bridge Street, you cross the River Calder. As the road rises, it becomes Scar Head Road. The slope is instantly nasty, running under trees and past houses to hit 20% at the sharp left-hand bend where it joins Sowerby Croft Lane. Thankfully it gets no harder and the steepest stretch you’ll hit further up is 17% at worst. After passing houses on the right, you’re treated to some spectacular views over Sowerby Bridge, but then it’s away from town to begin the toil to the summit. Winding between the high stone walls, the climb is a struggle but never torturous. As you enter Norland Town it fades to flat.