![Roger Paterson is geared up for the Santos Tour Down Under 2023 Challenge Tour. Picture supplied Roger Paterson is geared up for the Santos Tour Down Under 2023 Challenge Tour. Picture supplied](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/172374647/73181eb8-d1b2-461b-b0e6-62d0427d0fe6.jpg/r0_0_2016_1133_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
The toughest of legs will be tested in the Tour Down Under's Challenge Tour on January 20.
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Going between Norwood and Campbelltown, there are two distances for participants to choose from - full 123.5-kilometre stage and an 83-kilometre option.
Both make their way through the Adelaide Hills via Ashton, Basket Range, Lobethal and Cuddle Creek. The shorter distance makes its way back to the city through Gumeracha, while the longer route goes up to Williamstown before coming back down again via Kersbrook.
The toughest points are the climbs at Norton Summit and Corkscrew Road, while for those on the longer ride, they will also take in Checker Hill.
Crafers West resident Roger Paterson is a regular in the Challenge Tours and will be riding the 83km route.
Of the route, he said the best bit is Gorge Road, while the Corkscrew at the end is a challenge.
The last time he participated in a Challenge was in January 2020 to Murray Bridge with his Sportsmed colleagues.
"I was the oldest but the only one who had done any long rides beforehand. It was fun for me but a sufferfest for others," he said.
Roger described the vibe during the ride.
"I love riding in a good group of experienced riders who pull each other along, but you have to concentrate and make no sudden moves. It can get tricky with inexperienced riders that you don't know."
"The event provides great support and there are freelance guys that can also offer support if needed," he said.
His bike is an American-build Fuji lightweight, but with aero bars so he can keep changing positions. He also has front and rear cameras in the lights to record video while he's riding.
'Next time I get hit I'll have the evidence," he said.