Last year saw the debut of the ProCup MTB Grand Prix, a three-stage team XC race run over a single weekend. The format proved to be successful, and for 2007 there’ll be a three-race series of ProCup events.

Each race will have three stages over two days (except for one of them, which takes place on a single day and will have two). Teams of three will compete in each stage, accumulating points that will be aggregated to decide the overall winners.

Stage 1 will be a traditional XC race using courses described as “fast and technical”. This stage is also open to individual racers. Stage 2 will be the Short Course Relay, which is exactly what it sounds like – a team relay race on a short course within the race arena. The final stage (for the two events that have it) will be the ProCup Relay. The exact format of this stage is still being worked on, but we’re told to expect “an exciting mix of relay and enduro racing”.

The dates and venues for the 2007 ProCup series are:

• 15 April – Mapledurham, Nr Reading, Berkshire
• 16/17 June – Mapledurham, Nr Reading, Berkshire
• 8/9 September – Chawton Park Woods, Nr Alton, Hampshire

Pro-Cup’s Henry Turgoose says, “We’re really excited to be using the Mapledurham Estate for the first two rounds. It’s got two separate venues on the estate, is easy to get to and has some great woodland trails. There’s also a B&B and holiday cottages for those wanting a spot of luxury. The estate is private so you’re only allowed to ride there on race days.”

Each event will also feature a BBQ and live music in the evening, as well as hot showers. A bike wash facility is also planned. The series will be supported by Felt Bicycles and 1st Gear Cycles of Alton, with more to follow. There’ll be prizes for the best Overall, Mixed, Youth/Junior and Vet teams. You can assemble teams with any mix of gender or ability, although under 16s have to be in a team with other under 16s.

All sounds like fun – for more information, head to www.pro-cup.com.