Following a successful 2010 season of top-level XC racing, the British Mountain Bike Race Series is all set for a bigger and better season with entry now open and dates and venues confirmed. 

Over 3000 riders took part in the series last year proving, as if proof was needed, that it is by far the highest profile and most respected race series in XC racing.

Now for 2011, a number of improvements have been made to make it even bigger and better this year. Following feedback from riders and spectators alike, races will now predominantly be held on a Sunday making it easier to fit them in to ever increasingly busy lifestyles.

Kicking off with the now traditional series opener at Sherwood Pines on March 26-27th and climaxing at the perennial favorite of British and World Cup XC racing, Newnham Park, on September 24-25th, the series takes in five venues across the country with all races being UCI registered. Two of the rounds will be UCI category 1 races and three will be category 2.

One of the highlights of the season will no doubt be the Dalby round on April 16-17th.  Voted as the number one World Cup XC circuit in 2010, Elite riders will be able to take part in a Class 1 UCI race five weeks before the World Cup field comes to town.

With an Elite prize fund of £15,000, trophies for the top three finishers in every category and UCI points up for grabs, the cream of national and international talent will be lining up on the start lines across 2011.

2010 National Champion, Liam Killeen and 2010 Series Points Champion, Oli Beckingsale will both be in action for their new teams in 2011 as will Geoff Kabush and a number of yet to be announced high profile riders from around the world.

Entries are now open and, new for 2011, are only available as pre-entry only. No registrations will be accepted on the day of the event for any category. 

Series Organiser Martyn Salt said: “Things really developed in 2010 and we feel the emphasis on Sunday racing will make it easier for more riders to access the racing and take part alongside the pros. 

“With British Cycling’s support we now have five UCI registered rounds and we will play a key part in helping Team GB get on the start line at the Olympics.”

More information can be found at www.britishxc.com and you can register to race online today at www.xcracer.com. 

British Mountain Bike Race Series

• Round 1 – Mar 26/27 Sherwood Pines (Sunday Race)
• Round 2 – April 16/17 Dalby Forest (Sunday Race)
• Round 3 – June 11/12 Wasing Estate (Sunday Race)
• Round 4 – June 25/26 Margam Park (Sunday Race)
• Round 5 – Sep 24/25 Newnham Park, + Newnham 60 enduro + Floodlit Cross and Team Relay