I think an Audax is a great idea, it can require minimum support , and would also be a superb foundation for a Sportive at a later stage . Here is some info from the official Audax site .
http://www.aukweb.net/index2.htmWhat is Audax UK?
Audax United Kingdom (known as Audax UK or AUK) is the foremost long-distance cycling association in the UK, and the biggest in the world. It was established in 1976. AUK oversees the running of long-distance cycling events, and, using a system of timed checkpoints, validates and records every successful ride.
What are AUK events like?
They are NOT races. People ride them more in the spirit of an event like the London Marathon, everyone riding to their own limitations with the primary objective to just 'get round'. These events suit everyone, clubmen, time-trialists, recreational riders, cycletourists, 'born again' cyclists, young and old, male and female. And you'll see all sorts of machines - bikes, tandems, trikes, recumbents, and occasionally even stranger things ...
Size of entry varies greatly but is typically around 100 starters. Small local events may have just a handful of riders while a few popular events attract 200 starters or more.
The routes typically feature a few fast main roads and a lot of quiet, scenic lanes. Many events are quite hilly, some are extremely hilly, and even the flatter ones usually have one or two challenging climbs. Some events are noted for the quality of home-cooked food and tender loving care supplied along the way. But most are not - self-sufficiency is a highly-regarded quality in AUK.
On the same theme, 'support' - for example a following car - is very much frowned upon. There are maximum and minimum time limits, which are designed to suit everyone from the fittest of recreational riders, to more occasional riders who have plenty of determination. Each rider carries a 'brevet card' which is stamped at intermediate checkpoints and at the finish, and which is later returned to the rider as a certificate of their achievement.
The success rate on these events is very high - probably only about 10% fail to finish.
What is a permamanet
Permanent rides are more flexible than calendared events. Most can be ridden at any time and many organisers will not insist that you commit yourself to a particular date in advance. Most organisers provide you with a route sheet and many offer advice as to possible places to obtain your proof of passage in designated towns or villages.
Unlike a Sportive , the pace is usually even with very little racing , although the top Audaxer can still finish 200k in the minimum time including the odd Café stop at 30 kmh !
For a Club with the heritage of Addiscombe I think it would be great to have an established Audax route of 50k , 100k , and 200k. These could be set up as permamanents for the rest of the year , with one calendar date agreed .. perhaps the last ride at the end of the reliability season !
Cheers , Matt
by Rob Q » Mon Jan 25, 2010 4:41 pm 
. Then somebody to collect and validate cards at the end. Same person that would accept applications and send out route sheets.
