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Yes, I rode it in 2011 and 2012. I did not cover myself with glory, but I did win a club championship (although only because no one else rode a twelve in that year).
The first year I rode there were marshalling problems (as Hippy can confirm) but these were caused by unforeseen roadworks and I think the organisers did well not to cancel the event altogether. Generally I'd say the organisation was excellent - the promoter then was Esther Carpenter who is very experienced and highly competent, but was threatening to retire. I don't know what the position will be this year.
The course is mostly flat, but it is exposed to wind off the sea. For this reason it's probably unlikely to be a comp. record course, but if you're going to spend a whole day on your bike I'd say it's a lot more pleasant to be on the Kent marshes than riding endlessly up and down the A31.
I'd recommend the event to anyone, but I think it's especially suitable for a first attempt at the distance.
clubman-
there were marshalling problems (as Hippy can confirm)
Haha yeah, well it's just like me to add a few miles to a race for no reason but as Tester has pointed out on numerous occasions it's still up to the rider to know the course, marshals or no. That race would've been my first podium in an Open I think, had I not spent 30min off course.
I would like to go back and give it another go, it's definitely more interesting than the A31. It was always scheduled with one of the other 12hrs which I thought was daft given there's only 4-5 in the year! If I can fit it around other events I will try and hit it but it might have to wait until next year.
hippy
Anyone ridden the Kent 12 hr?