Wednesday, 10 April 2013

SXC/Thomsons Cycles Round 2 Abriachan 14/2/13


SXC/Thomsons Cycles Round 2 Abriachan

On Sunday the 14th of April, the SXC/Thomsons Cycles mountain bike event rolls into Abriachan for Round 2 of the 2013 series. With around 200 riders taking part in a multi-lap cross country race on a course taking in stunning views of the countryside above Loch Ness, it’s a must for racing and spectating.

Following a successful first round last month at Forfar, the organisers are looking forward to a brand new course for the 2013 series, with local club Ben Wyvis CC preparing the course for the arrival of racers from all over Scotland.

Local Elite rider Tom Evans from Strathpeffer is looking forward to racing in the Highlands, “The local trails around my home in Strathpeffer are my favourite place to cycle, and it’s fantastic that the SXC are coming to the Highlands to put on a race. The formation of Ben Wyvis CC has boosted the number of cyclists, who cycle for recreation and who go to races”. With his sights set on National titles and European success, Tom is looking forward to his first year in the Elite category. “It’s a challenge to be racing in the Elite category, however it’s an opportunity I relish. I hope to gain Commonwealth Games qualification criteria this year, while continuing to enjoy getting out and riding my bike.”

The course combines wide climbs with swooping, flowing descents. There is also the added interest of technical, challenging sections including ‘north-shore’ bridges, rocks, roots and moorland.

There will be categories for all levels of riders including first-time beginners trying their hand at mountain bike racing in the Beginners or Open category. There is also the opportunity to watch the top-level Elites taking on the course in the afternoon, with experienced, quality riders battling it out over many laps. Also included in the programme for the day is an Under-12’s race, where the younger riders get a chance to take on a mini version of the course.

For Northern riders, the event will incorporate the North of Scotland (NoSCA) Championships, which will allow the top-placed North of Scotland rider to become regional Champion. This is a fantastic opportunity for local riders to come along and compete against top Scottish riders with the added incentive of a regional Championship to contest.

Event entry will be open to everyone on the day from 9.30am, with races setting off at 11am and 2pm. Spectators will be able to find ample points around the course to watch and photograph racers grimace up the climbs and blast down the descents.

There is plenty of parking on site, along with toilet facilities and catering to keep riders and spectators well fuelled throughout the day.

For more information, visit www.sxc.org.uk or email info@sxc.org.uk

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