Ashcombe in Devon will host the 13th Annual Onabike Cup DH race on 17 December. Apparently it’s the longest-running DH race in Britain, being first contested in 1994. The winner back then was Steve Kitchin, riding a Mongoose Amplifier (one of only four full suspension bikes out of about 140).

Since then the Onabike Cup has been won by Stefan Gleed, Ollie Thomas, Andy Barron, Rich Warner, Symon Folland (twice), Dan Atherton, Gee Atherton, Tom Tuckey and Ashley Mullane (twice and the current holder). So if you fancy your chances of getting your name on the trophy, head for Ashcombe.

Practice will run from 9-11.30am, with two race runs. The times for both runs will be added together to decide the final standings. The Ashcombe venue has toilets, showers and even B&B accommodation on site. There’ll also be live TAG Heuer timing with results display screens, hard-standing car park, catering, mobile bike shop and a course described as “suitable for all ages and skills”.

All the usual categories will be available, with prizes for the top three in each. Slightly different categories include the “Future Stars” (10-12 year olds) and a “Novice” class which is for riders over 16 who’ve never finished in the top three of any cycle race.

More details at dm27.com/nacc/winter0607/maps/ashcombe.htm.