TESCO Bank Tour O The Borders has announced that a new shorter version of the closed-road route will be introduced for the major sportive this summer.

The new route, called the '88 Challenge’ will enjoy the same stunning Borders scenery, and will still include the iconic Talla climb, but at 88.8km (55 miles) presents a less challenging alternative to the original '120 Challenge’, particularly for less experienced riders.

Whilst still a significant length, the ’88’ version will be a little easier on riders’ legs, as two of the big climbs on the full route are omitted.

The confirmation of the new route and challenge follows a successful planning process with Scottish Borders Council’s Safety Advisory Group.

Already nearly 2000 riders have signed up for the fastest growing cycling event in Scotland, with record numbers now predicted on Sunday, August 9.

Neil Dalgleish, Tesco Bank Tour O The Borders Event Director, said: “There has been big demand for a shorter route and we’re delighted the ’88 Challenge’ will still include many of the route’s highlights and spectacular landscapes. It will still be a proper day out on the bike with all the fun of a closed road sportive, but will be more manageable for many riders. The '120 Challenge’ is a big day in the saddle, and we want to make sure Tesco Bank Tour O The Borders is a sportive accessible to as many riders as possible.” Entries for the Tesco Bank Tour O The Borders are available online at www.tourotheborders.com Chris Newton, Community Manager at Tesco Bank, added: “We’re delighted to be able to reveal the new ’88 Challenge’ route which at 88km will be hugely attractive to many cyclists. Tesco Bank is proud to support the communities we serve and we are particularly keen to support events which encourage everyone to take part. We know that not only will thousands of cyclists have an amazing day, but the wider Scottish Borders community will benefit from such a significant event.”