Hope Technology has stepped forward as sponsor of the Endurance Downhill race at Fort William on 1 August.

This is probably one of the toughest events on the UK calendar, tasking riders to race the Fort William DH course as many times as possible inside of 6 hours. No easy task, given just how rugged and arm-busting the 2.82km course is, which drops over 550m.

Bucket loads of stamina are also required as a succession of big jumps and bumps, berms, drop-offs, rock slabs and technical natural sections provide plenty of challenges for the riders, all the way from the top gondola station (at 655m) to the magnificent finish section above the Nevis Range car park (100m).

“We decided to get involved with No Fuss and the Endurance Downhill after six of us from Hope took part in the 2008 event,” says Hope Technology’s Neil Arnold. “It was a race that really appealed to a good cross section of the riders within Hope. All who took part agreed that it was a fantastic format and a great way to run a race.

“That was the start of our involvement and we are keen to be associated with this style of event – bringing a fantastic course, with all the facilities you would expect, to a wide range of riders in a value for money package. Who knows, maybe we can convince the No Fuss team that we need to see the six hours turn into twelve or twenty for the ultimate downhill endurance.”

No Fuss Events Frazer Coupland added: “2008 was an awesome success. We proved that downhill endurance format worked and worked well. The start was one of the most fantastic spectacles I have ever witnessed in a mountain bike race; 90 armour clad riders running for their mounts.

“It is fantastic that Hope have come on board to headline for the Downhill Endurance in 2009. With their support we are confident that the event will be a sell out this year.”

The Hope Downhill Endurance not only tests physical endurance and technical riding ability, it also tests reliability. Participants will only be allowed one bike and a list of itemised spares to see them through the whole event.

At the bottom of each run participants have the opportunity to enter the tech area to carry out any running repairs, replenish fluids and to take a breather. There will be time penalties for riders who have to change wheels, forks, bars, frames and other major components. Participants will not be allowed assistance in the maintenance of their equipment from outside the tech area.

Enter now at to www.nofussevents.co.uk