Saddle sore!

31st August 2010

Rider tackles boggy terrain at the 2009 event.

SADDLE SORE?
TRY RACING 100 MILES OVER BUMPY GROUND IN JUST 8 HOURS!

The most gruelling mountain bike race in the UK takes place on Saturday 4 September in Kielder Water & Forest Park.

Over 700 riders from across the nation have signed-up to tackle an awesome 100 mile challenge through some of the Borders' wildest and most breathtaking scenery.

Such distances are more associated with top road racing, but these athletes taking part in the Montane Kielder 100 will also have to negotiate rapid descents, climbs, single track and twists and turns. It’s a test of stamina, courage and endurance and all over a single lap.

Alex MacLennan, Recreation and Tourism Manager with the Forestry Commission, commented:

“Last year's race was won in an incredible time of a little over 8 hours. Kielder Water & Forest Park is now hosting an impressive range of cycling events for all levels, but this is the toughest of the lot and unique in Britain. It’s non stop hard cycling over unforgiving terrain, but a tremendous event for spectators.”

To ensure the field has enough time to complete the circuit – which sets out from Kielder Castle and heads over the border to the 7 Stanes Centre in Newcastleton - the start will be at 6.30am in the morning. But no one has been deterred - organisers SIP Events, working with the Kielder Partnership, closed the field to new entrants five months early!

Rangers at Kielder Castle will direct spectators to the best vantage points around the mammoth circuit. Further information on the event can be found at www.kielder100.com

Media calls to Richard Darn on 01226 246351. Mobile 0775 367 0038.

Notes to Editor
The Kielder Partnership is a public, voluntary and private sector collaboration working to develop Kielder Water & Forest Park as an inspirational place for leisure, exploration and fun. Partners are the Calvert Trust Kielder, Environment Agency, Forestry Commission, Northumberland County Council and Northumbrian Water, plus representation from community groups. The Northumberland Wildlife Trust is an associate member.