The Cirencester Off-Road Duathlon will take place on Sunday February 13.

The two-mile run, 10-mile cross-country MTB ride, two-mile run takes place in the beautiful Bathurst Estate, costs £18 to enter and is the perfect opportunity to spice up your winter riding. A shorter one-mile run, five-mile MTB, one-mile run event is also available (£15), as well as a one runner, one rider relay (£18).

The run is on grass and wooded trails, while the bike ride is on an undulating, wooded trail with a grass section at the end of each lap. The final run is over the same course as the first run. Organisers recommend that first time MTB competitors choose the short event.

“Being a keen cyclo-cross and mountain bike racer, but also someone who enjoys running, I jumped at the chance to have a go at a duathlon, and was surprised to win at my first attempt,” said 2010 victor Mark Leyland.

“Having just finished the winter cyclo-cross season, this seemed like the perfect type of event for my abilities, as cyclo-cross involves sections of running as well as cycling, although its easier running without a bike on your shoulder.

“The course is fairly flat and flowing and not too technical, with a good combination of grass, gravel tracks and a moderate climb at the end of the lap. The course can get muddy, but that’s all part of the fun.

“I’d advise using a narrower knobbly tyre, perhaps a 26×1.5 or 1.9 width. A ‘crud catcher’ will help keep any mud out of your face too, all important for the race photos.”

For more information and to enter, point your browser to www.triferris.com