AN ABERGAVENNY athlete recently tackled one of the toughest endurance events in the sportive calendar - the Mallorca 312.

Personal Trainer, Mike James of MJ Health and Fitness joined 8,000 cyclists from all over the world and saddled up to ride 312 kilometres, across the mountains of the Spanish island.

Mike told the Chronicle, "It was by far the toughest sportive I’ve ever done. However I enjoyed the race and felt very proud once I crossed the finishing line."

Describing the course, Mike added, “We started at 6am from Playa de Muro. The route takes you along the coast to Port de Pollenca before the climbing starts. The first two climbs will be familiar to Mallorca regulars, the Coll de Femenia and Puig Major. This is the highest point of the ride. After 150km the route leaves the mountains and you are onto the plains before a lumpy last section."

Mike stressed, “It was the hardest event I have completed to date but I’m still looking forward to more challenges in the future.”