The Montane Kielder 100 returns on Saturday September 15 with the introduction of a stepping-stone distance in the shape of the Kielder 50.

Four years after its first outing the Montane Kielder 100 remains one of the biggest events on the mountain bike calendar and is still the only 100-mile single lap race in Great Britain.

The organisers have increased the cash prize pot to more than £3,000 across all categories. The sub-7 hour mark has yet to be broken and there’s a £1,000 cash prize up for grabs for the first person to do so.

Last year’s event was the most grueling to date and, with the 600-strong field forced to battle against harsh weather conditions, the arena was awash with heroic stories of determination from all that finished the tough course, made up of Kielder Forest and Newcastleton 7Stanes mountain bike trails interlinked by a wide variety of natural and Forestry Commission routes.

British clothing company Montane are back again as title sponsors, providing a host of riders freebies and clothing prizes for the top riders, while Topeak and Fizik will also be providing prizes. The first one hundred finishers from the 100-mile route will get a custom ultralight MT ZOOM top cap/bolt combo as reward for their effort.

Accelerade will be providing energy drink at the feed stations again and Saddle Skedaddle will be providing logistical support. New sponsors include ProGold lube, Run and Ride and BikeSeven, who will provide support at technical assistance stations.

Hundreds of riders have already signed up, according to the organisers, including a number of top British endurance racers hoping to gain points towards the new Endurance Series.

Entry costs £35 for the 50-mile course and £55 for the 100-mile route. To find out more or to enter, head to www.kielder100.co.uk. The organisers are also appealing for volunteers to help on the day in return for a few event goodies. Take a look at the volunteers page on the website for more information.