On 4 September the third edition of the Badlands set off from Granada. It is an ultra-distance, self-supported cycle touring event in which participants must cover almost 800km with around 17,000 metres of positive accumulated elevation gain, crossing the Tabernas Desert and Gorafe along part of the route.
Despite its short history, this event has become a true international benchmark, as shown by the fact that entries sold out in just 10 minutes. A large group of two-wheel enthusiasts from all over the world are taking part, including three members of the Club Ciclista Manilva: Barry Tinnelly, Juan Antonio Gago and Mariano Sánchez, who have until Friday 9 September at 20:00 to cross the finish line.
Participants are tracked by GPS at all times to verify that they are following the correct route. Although the aim of the event is not competitive, the good thing about this type of event is that everyone takes it as they wish: some participants aim to complete the whole route in the shortest time possible, while others treat it as an adventure, enjoying the company of other participants and the surroundings along the route. However it is approached, the level of preparation, both physical and psychological, needed to meet the demands of the route with minimal resources is within the reach of very few.
