It was a warm up ride till metrocentra, and checkpoint to refill for the endurance climbing. There were continous section of ascent starting with the hiking trails on the Kite Hall, this was the first stop for the snack (muffins!). This was right away followed by one of the longest off road descents. Nearing the end, there was one more painful ascent. Except the cycling route along the Tyne river, all were gravel with tiny sections of tarmac.