“It’s a bit like playing on the Wembley pitch before the FA Cup Final,” says James Risker ahead of the Dalby Dare.

So what is the Dalby Dare? Taking place this Saturday, the event allows amateur riders to tackle the full 6km World Cup loop at Dalby Forest, less than 24 hours before the elite men’s and women’s fields take to the start line.

Entry costs £33.50, which includes a pass to watch the pro races, as well as a Dalby Dare t-shirt and a goody bag, but we’ve got ten free entries to give away right here on Bikemagic.

Just shy of 11,000 mountain bike fans descended on Dalby for last year’s World Cup round – voted best on the circuit by the UCI – although the 2011 course has undergone a minor change.

“The length has been shortened and the aptly named Worry Gill, which forced many bikers to dismount and run with their bikes, has been made slightly easier so more riders can stay in the saddle,” said the Forestry Commission’s Martin O’Vastar. “It’s still a tough ask, but this is the sport’s pinnacle.”

Liam Killeen will lead Great Britain’s 12-rider team, with Annie Last and Tracy Moseley set to compete in the elite women’s race.

“The weekend will be one of the biggest mountain bike events in Britain before the London Olympics with many riders pushing for qualification points to compete in next year’s Games,” added forest management director Alan Eves.