Expect close and tactical racing, another international field of big names and UCI Category One points for Round Two of the Freerange Sports Optics British Mountain Bike Series, 12/13 May at Sherwood Pines, Nottingham.

After a classic opening round at Thetford in April, the stage is set for another thriller as Europe’s top riders battle it out against the UK’s finest. With a £3,000 prize fund in the Elite races and priceless points for Olympic qualification up for grabs, the race is sure to lure international talent.

Round one winner and National Champion Oli Beckingsale will be out to defend his 100% record, with anyone doubting his motivation only having to observe his jubilant post-race celebrations at Thetford. Since then, Oli has turned in a solid result at the first round of the World Cup in Belgium and looks set to be at the head of racing once more come the weekend. South African Burry Stander will however will be doing his best to turn silver into gold at Sherwood, after getting edged out by Beckingsale in the previous round and having an encouraging performance at the Sea Otter since.

In the women’s race under-23 rider Amy Hunt will be looking to repeat her astonishing performance at round one, where she defied the odds and beat a tired Rosara Joseph. Of course, Rosara will be back with reigning champion Jenny Copnall hoping to get her season started after a disappointing fifth at Thetford, but with Kate Potter and Jenn O’Connor also in the mix it will not be an easy ride to the podium. Slovak Janka Stenkova will also be on the line alongside Irish riders Tarja Owens and Ciara McManus, adding to this quality field.

The Elite races start at 12noon this year and not 12.30 as in previous years, with podium presentations immediately after the races, so make sure you don’t miss the start or your moment of glory!

The support races make up the majority of the day and offer some close battles – no more than in Juniors where the stars of tomorrow will put on a show to rival the best, with five who could take the win. If however your aims are a little more relaxed, your needs will certainly be catered for with trade stands, somewhere to eat and drink the afternoon away and no doubt some sunshine to bask in.

Sunday morning will begin with more racing, albeit with a twist for the Trek National Marathon Series. 100 kilometres of pain and pleasure will await the best, with 50km or 25km options for those wanting to appreciate the woodland setting and rub shoulders with the pros.

As ever there will be entry on the day, free camping and showers and even some high-ropes if you fancy a bit of a change from everything bike.

All the details are on www.xcracer.com and it’s free to spectate, so come on down and check out the best XC mountain bike action this side of the World Champs!