Following a succesful first round of the British Mountain Bike Race Series at Sherwood Pines last month, the XC series moves to Dalby Forest this weekend for another round of fast and close racing.

The venue voted as one of the best XC courses in the world, this weekend’s race will serve as an opportunity to try out the route ahead of the World Cup in five weeks time.

Packed entry confirm popularity of XC racing

Over 500 entries have already been received for the Dalby round this Sunday with the UCI Class 1 race attracting the national champions of Norway, France, Canada, Ireland and Portugal over to the UK to take on our own Liam Killeen, Oli Beckingsale and Annie Last.

The packed field will also feature a true legend of the sport with the announcement that former Olympic champion, Gunn-Rita Dahle Flessja has also confirmed her place on the start line this Sunday.

All riders will benefit from free neutral support from Weldtite/Fibrax. Free onsite camping is also available for riders and their families from the Friday night. 

Something for the non-racers too

For the non-riders and for general race fans, Dalby Forest offers a wide range of facilities and entertainment for the whole family. Not only will you be able to see some of the world’s fastest racers battling it out over an award-winning course, but you can also explore the forest’s permanent trails on bike or on foot. There is an onsite café, bike shop and Go Ape high ropes course as well as event catering and a kids playground.

New for 2011

Younger members of the family can also now get involved in the racing and emulate their XC heroes and heroines. British Cycling will be running free to enter Go-Ride Races for children.

With categories for U12, U14 and U16 riders, these races are pure ‘entry level’ races for those new to the sport and who want to try it out in a fun and friendly atmosphere. This feature got a huge reaction at the opening round in Sherwood Pines with kids queuing up to take part alongside some very proud and somewhat entertained parents.

Entry to the event is free of charge for spectators but a forest vehicle toll applies to all visitors.

Race schedule

Saturday April 16th

• 1100 Registration opens
• 1200-1700 Practice Open

Sunday April 17th

• 0800-1400 Registration and licence inspection
• 0900 XC Practice
• 0930 Race 1 – All Female categories and Juvenile/Youth boys
• 1030 Go-Ride Racing for U16s
• 1130 Practice
• 1130 Race 1 presentations
• 1200 Race 2 – Elite/Expert/Sport/Junior men
• 1400 Race 2 presentations
• 1430 Race 3 – Master/Vet/Grand Vet/Super Vet Men and Open
• 1630 Race 3 presentations

More information about the race weekend and the Go-Ride children’s races can be found at www.britishxc.com.