Boxford Tornado 2024
Supporting the East anglian Air Ambulance charity
This years Tornado has now come and gone and despite the horrendous weather a good number of hardy riders took part and completed either the full sixty five mile course or one of the thirty plus mile loops.
A huge thankyou to all of the many volunteers that braved the weather to make the event such a success and, of course, all those riders who took part.
With the new relaxed southern route through the heart of Constable Country and the Stour Vale, and a more challenging Northern route the event gave riders the chance to experience the beautiful countryside and villages that surround our village.
The 2024 Routes
Riders cycling the shorter distance had the option of riding either Route 1 or Route 2. Both had similar elevation. However, Route 1 included three significant climbs whilst Route 2 was gently undulating. Riders who completed the full 65 miles rode both loops.
Route 1 - The Northern Route took the riders through some beautiful countryside and included the picturesque villages of Chelsworth and Kersey.
Route 2 - The Southern Route took the riders into Constable country and passed through Dedham and the historic wool town of Hadleigh.
Some pictures from a wet 2024 Tornado.
Some comments about the Tornado:
Thanks to the club for a great Tornado again today. The route was well signposted as usual, Marshall’s were great and Kevin’s burgers at the end of the ride were just what was needed!
Thank you Boxford Bike club for another great event. From the friendly marshal’s to the excellent course signs to the bar be que, the burger was delicious and very much needed.
It couldn’t have been easy with today’s conditions but everyone involved should give themselves a pat on the back.
Hi, I would just like to say a big thank you to all involved in organising todays event. Well organised, great route, well marshalled and sign posted. Thanks again and good health to all.
My dad, sister, 2 nieces, myself and my sons all completed the 32 miles and my brother and husband (Tristan) 65 miles today. Everyone was so happy despite the rain. A wonderful event. Thanks so much.
It was fantastic to take part in such a well organised and friendly event. I haven't done many big rides but yesterday has made me realise I should do more. Shame about the weather but it held off enough to see your delightful countryside. The signage was excellent by the way. Well done to you all.
Just wanted to convey my thanks for a great sportive Sunday - first time up in Suffolk cycling in that area - will definitely return its a great part of the world. Great roads (far fewer pot holes than Kent!), minimal traffic and beautiful scenery. Everyone at the club was so welcoming and friendly. Very well organised sportive and route signage was spot on. Look forward to seeing the Boxford CC crew down Kent way again for the Hell of The Ashdown 24 and Kentish Killer 24!
Free Photographs Download Link
Why is our event called The Tornado?
Our Sportive is named after Tornado Smith who lived in the village and was known as a daredevil motor cyclist and for his pet lion that could often be seen in and around the village of Boxford being walked on a lead. Sadly the lion had to be put down at the outset of the Second World War and is buried in the courtyard of the White Hart Public House where most of our club rides start from.
Tornado Smith with his pet lioness.
