Beyond Mountain Bikes in Cranleigh have stepped in as lead sponsor and will be providing prizes for those quick and skilful enough to make the podium.

Chris Denman, former Southern XC champ and WDMBC chairman says: “The Black Park race is a great season opener and will give racers an early indication of how their winter training has gone. As usual we’re planning a short tight twisty singletrack course which requires good bike handling skills and finesse to ride at speed. Having said that, there’s not much in the way of climbing and there will be categories to suit all abilities.”

Race sponsor, Jackie Roberts of Beyond Mountain Bikes in Cranleigh, Surrey added: “The Black Park event is grass roots racing at its best. Whether you are a complete beginner, a weekend warrior or a hardened racer, this event has something for you. This is exactly the sort of event that Beyond Mountain Bikes like to sponsor and we are excited about being involved in 2010.”

In addition to sponsorship from Beyond Mountain Bikes, the Womens’ categories will be supported by Dirt Divas who will be providing vouchers for their excellent skills courses. The online energy and nutrition supplier, The Feed Station, will also be providing a selection of its products as prizes.

In an effort to provide categories for all abilities and ages there will be U10s, U12s, U14s and U16 youth races held in addition to Beginner, Fun, Singlespeed, Open, Vet and Grand Vet categories.

Online entry is available through www.xcracer.com. More info at www.wdmbc.co.uk