Sheffield will hose the inaugural Steel City series of city centre mini downhill races on 5 March with Steve Peat lending his support to ensure the event is one to remember.

In association with the Wildlife Trust and ThisiSheffield and in aid of Greno Woods appeal, the new event will be the first since (and only those readers with a long memory will remember this) the last official downhill race in Steel City way back in 1995. 

The race track is said to be fast and flowing which would suit mid travel trail bikes and riders who can carry speed, we’re told. Timing the track has found it to be 1min 30secs, roughly, in length.

More than anything though the organisers are hoping it’s a fun event for all those choosing to take part, from serious competitors or novices. Riders will get two timed runs with the fastest 3 riders in each category receiving a prize. Spectators will be able to see large stretches of the track, so make sure you bring your friends and family along.

Take a closer look at a GPS route of the track

Freecaster.tv will be covering the event, producing a full length feature hosted by the inimitable Rob Warner. This will include coverage of the whole track, top ten race runs with commentary, interviews, helmet and cable cameras… and a course walk with Rob himself.

Event categories

• Ripper                   Age 10-11            £10
• Juvenile               Age 12-14            £10
• Youth                    Age 15-16            £15
• Junior                    Age 17-18            £15
• Senior                   Age 19-29            £20
• Master                 Age 30-39            £20
• Veteran               Age 40+                £20
• Pro-Am                                Open                     £20
• Ladies                   All ages                 £15

Timetable

• Registration                                        8:30 – 10:30
• Practice                                                9:00-12:00
• Race                                                      12:30
• Prizes and presentations              3-3:30

There will be on-site medical cover, catering, toilets and car parking available. Sponsors for the event include Royal, Sram, 18 bikes, Cotic, The Bike Tree, O’Neal, Polaris, Five Ten, Chromag, Smartwool, Monster, Arcteryx and many more.

Professional timing for the race will be provided by the MIJ team.

Registration for the event is now open www.activeglobal.com/uk/off-road-cycling/sheffield-uk-england/peaty-s-steel-city-downhill-2011

More info at www.StevePeat.com/SteelCityDH