LINGS HILL

BRANSTON, LEICESTERSHIRE

There are any number of tough little climbs in the Vale of Belvoir, so why have I chosen this one over a handful of other worthy candidates? Well, with Terrace Hill already in the bag, I wanted to find it a companion. I almost went for Harby Hill as it’s frequently used for hill climbs; however, Lings Hill has a special place in my heart. The search for adrenaline led me to Terrace, where I found my climbing legs; the craving for more led me here. At 16 years old, on brand new 21mm rubber, I sat at the top of its dead-straight 10% gradient and my perception of speed was to be altered forever. Did I touch the brakes? Unfortunately yes, but you won’t need them on the way up. It’s a very simple climb, just 500 metres right up a 10% slope. Pick a suitable gear and nail it. Keep your eyes on the prize – the brow ahead – and fight all the way until you cross it, kinking left to reach the summit.