500 cyclists enjoyed good conditions for the first running of the Bealach Beag Challenge.  Although this is the 'short' course of only 43 miles, it still contains all the hard bits!  Not only is there the UK's highest road climb to contend with but a gruelling trip round the coast of the Applecross Peninsula with ne'r a flat bit of road.

The tiny village of Shieldaig had its population multiplied many times by the throng of cyclists who had descended from all parts of the country. It was calm and cool when the field left the coast and some at least had probably failed to consider that conditions would be quite different at the top of the Bealach where a little hail reminded them that it was not summer yet!  From the ultra fit to the 'why am I here?', all were keen to get away and the village was quickly returned, temporarily at least, to its usual calm demeanour.

However, all too soon the first rider returned in a stunning time of 2hrs 16m.  From then a trickle turned into a steady stream of finishers in varying degrees of exhaustion and/or elation.  These included many first-time sportivists as well as seasoned campaigners.  Ages ranged from 16 to 70. Of particular note was Karen Darke competing on a hand cranked tandem.  It is hoped that this event will boost participation in cycling in Scotland and introduce many to the stunning scenery of the West Coast.

The organisers said "This has been a tremendous success and we thank all those involved from the local communities of Shieldaig and Applecross for their help and support.  We look forward to an equally enjoyable event in September when the full 90 mile course of the Bealach Mor Challenge will be tackled.

"We are grateful for the support of Highland 2007 in staging these events."

Full details of the event and results can be found on the website http://www.bealach-na-ba.co.uk