16-23 August 2014
A brand new event in the MTB calendar, the Xcalibre is pro-am tour with a wild west feel. Taking place over seven days in three of Britain’s most scenic national parks – Pembrokeshire Coast, the Brecon Beacons and Exmoor, the event aims to test all elements of mountain biking from cross country to enduro and downhill.
Teams will consist of two competitors each and there are 500 places in total. The event which is due to be televised in ITV does come with a pretty hefty price tag – £1,800 per team. Ouch! But race organisers promise the all-inclusive package will be worth it and are urging competitors of all ability to get involved. Of course it does go without saying that a pretty high level of fitness and competence are required to complete this challenging event.
[part title=”Manx Telecom End to End MTB Challenge”]
Manx Telecom End to End MTB Challenge
7 September 2014
This race offers you the opportunity to ride from one end of the Isle of Man to the other. Sounds simple. But don’t be fooled, this 75km route has some sizeable peaks along the way making it quite a challenge.
The good news is that you will be rewarded for your efforts. The course combines 1,500m of climb with a thrilling mixture of fast fire roads, sweeping moorland paths, country lanes and some singletrack thrown in for good measure.
The field does feature a couple of top riders, but the bulk of competitors are weekend riders looking for a challenge and a bit of fun. The leaders tend to complete the course in about three hours, while those out for a more leisurely ride at the back of the pack can take anything up to about six hours. Over 1,500 people are expected to compete so a good atmosphere is guaranteed.
[part title=” The Red Bull Foxhunt”]
October 2014 (Date TBC)
Not for the faint-hearted this race sees traditional foxhunting turned on its head. The fox, AKA mountain biking legend Gee Atherton chases the hunters.
The 400-strong group of hunters are set loose in a mass start. Ranging in ability from novice to seasoned pro, they want to beat the ‘fox’ who is released shortly after them to the bottom of the hill.
Two years ago just one rider managed to beat Gee Atherton, multiple World Cup winner, across the line. Last year 13 managed to cross the line before him. Are you up for the challenge?
