Streatley Hill is a short steep climb in West Berkshire out of the village of Streatley. The course was used in the 2020 National Hill Climb Championships.
Details of the hill are eloquently described by former National Hill Climb champion Tejvan Pettinger in the link below. The road was resurfaced in 2021 and is currently mainly in good condition
Streatley Hill - Cycling uphill
Reading CC welcomes cyclists of all abilities and below is a guide for first time hill climbers should you choose Streatley as your first event. We will have complimentary refreshments available for all competitors and volunteers.
Mini Guide for First Time Hill Climbers: further details of car parking, start order and other important information will be shared once entry closes
Checklist:
1. Bike and wheels
2. Front and rear light – you must have a working lights fitted to your bike to start
3. Number – which you collect at sign-on and which should be fitted on your lower back correctly
4. Helmet - you must wear a helmet
5. Bike computer if using one (make sure it's charged)
6. Cycle clothing - Cycling shorts and jersey (or skinsuit), base layers if you think you need one, socks, towel (might not be needed, but in case it's unseasonably hot or wet)
7. Warm clothing for before and after
8. Drink and food. Plenty of water as you will feel very thirsty afterwards. There will be refreshments available at the village hall HQ
9. Remember to sign out when you return your number – important to avoid DNF
What you need to do:
1. Arrive and park in the event car park if you are driving to the event
2. Sign on at the village hall and collect your race number
3. Get ready and warm up.
4. Get to the start on time and remember your lights. If you are late you will incur a time penalty.
5. Start using the holder (a nice volunteer who will offer to hold your bike) or with one foot on the ground. The timekeeper will call you up and give you a count down of “30s, 20s, 10s, 5-4-3-2-1 Go.” If you prefer not to be held you can start with one foot on the ground.
6. Ride as fast as you can until you reach the finish board and finish timekeeper and cross the finish point. Shout your number as you cross the line if you can
7. Find a safe place to recover after which cheering on other riders is encouraged and when you are ready descend carefully back down and head to HQ
8. Sign out, return race number and enjoy refreshments
9. There will be a presentation of prizes at the HQ once all competitors and volunteers have had a chance to return to HQ. All riders, supporters and volunteers are welcome to attend
10. Please vacate the car park promptly after the event
11. Most importantly enjoy the event, the hill climb atmosphere and camaraderie, respect the volunteer team and don’t hesitate to ask us for help or if you have any questions