When Andy Cook first rode the Mallorca 312 in 2017, he knew it was going to be an epic event. What he hadn’t known however was quite how well supported the event is, nor what sort of exciting, celebratory-style atmosphere was going to greet him along the route. Andy knows the beautiful rolling roads and challenging climbs of Mallorca like the back of his hand, having run camps on the island for over 25 years. But taking part in the 312 simply as a punter (an unusual experience for him!) and experiencing the enjoyment that this event brings to participants and crowds alike proved to Andy that it was an event worth doing – in fact, he described the 312km he completed in April last year as one of the “best rides of my life”.
Andy was immediately keen to get others riding this epic gran fondo – which has been described as the greatest Sportive in Europe. He secured a number of places for the 2018 edition and created an exclusive Andy Cook Cycling Mallorca 312 trip, bringing all the best bits of an Andy Cook Cycling Mallorca Bike Camp to a new 5-day package incorporating the 312.
A range of cyclists of different levels joined up to take part in the event as part of the Andy Cook Cycling Camp and they all arrived at Palma Airport on Thursday 26th April to be greeted by Andy and ACC Ride Leader Mark and taken to the beautiful PortBlue Club Pollentia Resort, a high-quality, cyclist-friendly hotel close to the 312 Event HQ in Playa de Muro. Our clients had time to build up their bikes, or collect them from the on-site bike rental shop, relax in the resort’s bars or state-of-the-art spa, before a first night briefing and welcome meeting took place. The next day, Andy and Mark took the group on a gentle ride to the event HQ to sign on and take advantage of the stalls, exhibits and food stands on offer in the 312 Village. Here, all participants collected their stylish 312 jerseys and had the opportunity to purchase other 312-branded cycling items. Many clients couldn’t resist picking up a little souvenir or two!
After a spin around the roads of Mallorca it was back to the resort for last-minute prep, a good dinner and an early night. The big day dawned on Saturday 28th and the Andy Cook Cycling clients joined many other guests at the hotel who were also participating in the 312 for a special early breakfast. There was plenty on offer for all appetites! The group rode together to the event start, setting themselves up nicely for a day of cycling. It was the usual chaotic but very jolly start and everyone was on the road at 8am. The event this year had attracted 8000 riders which meant the roads were filled with cyclists of all nationalities, ages, genders and abilities. The same chaotic and friendly atmosphere was prevalent at each of the organised feed stations, with thousands of locals turning up to support the event and local school children manning the food tents. Andy Cook Cycling clients had a private support vehicle carrying kit, water and food for those who wanted to get a bit of peace and quiet whilst they stopped, which proved successful.
All the ACC clients completed the event – whether they rode the 167km, the 225km or the 312km route and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day, despite the challenge of the tough climbs and many miles in the saddle. We received some lovely feedback from our clients:
I was sooooo pleased to see a familiar face at the finish and I got a lift back to the resort!!! But that’s exactly the extra service you get on an Andy Cook Cycling event.”
“Massive thank you to Andy Cook and Mark Wareham for a great couple of days at the Mallorca312. A tough ride made pleasurable with friends and great company. The organisation of Andy Cook Cycling was faultless as you’d expect down to the last detail. Great customer service, attention to detail, highly recommended – it’s the little things that makes a difference 
👍
🚲
👊”
After a celebratory dinner at the resort and a warm-down ride on the Sunday, it was time to travel home. It’s safe to say, many miles were ridden, many new friends were made, and lots of fun was had once again on an Andy Cook Cycling Bike Camp.
We’ve already secured a number of places for the 2019 Mallorca 312 – so click the link here to read more about our selection of Andy Cook Cycling Bike Camps on offer over the next year!
