Five cycling events to train for next year

Autumn is here and we all know what that means! It's time to get out the warm gear and start dusting off the turbo trainer.

With all but a few sportive's and gran fondos left on the calendar it's time to start looking at the year ahead and map out some goals to hit next year. So here are my top five road events you could train for next year!

1. Conquer an Everest
Okay so not technically an event but a challenge none the less. Everesting has exploded onto the cycling scene and is gaining popularity across the globe. The idea is simple, pick a hill and ride up and down that hill until you've cycled the height of Mt. Everest. Given that the rides can average between 300km - 500km and easily last over 15hrs in the saddle with minimum breaks. With it's high failure rate, this is a challenge not to be taken lightly. 
Website: Everesting.cc

2. L'Etape du tour
Hugely popular, follow the Tour De France route of the professionals. Do the whole 2 weeks or take part in a few stages. This event is hugely popular so get in your entry before it's too late.  
Website: L'Etape Du Tour

3. Milan San Remo Sportive
This historical route of 294km takes place on June 5th and covers virtually the same route as the professionals. Not only is distance a challenge the route includes short punchy climbs such as the Poggio, Cipressa and Passo Del Turchino. Be sure to get those hill reps in.
Website: Milan San Remo

4. 24hr Relay Race
There's nothing more rewarding than completely a challenge as a team or with a bunch of mates. Nor is there many events where you can cycle throughout the night. Even if you don't take this event to seriously, the atmosphere during the event is enough to make you sign up again after taking part once. Do your research and you'll find qualifying races that if successful you could be riding the Nurburgring Ring for free later in the year.
Website: Rad Am Ring

5. Gran Fondo New York - Mont. Ventoux
This particular gran fondo started this June this year and is part of the Gran Fondo New York World Series. 130km taking in three categorized climbs before finishing on the summit of Mont Ventoux. The distance of the route gives an indication of how tough the route really is as it is shorter than most gran fondos and sportives you'll come across. This definitely is not a gran fondo for beginners. 
Website: GFNY Mont Ventoux