Not long now until the first Merida MTB Marathon (8/9 April), which will also feature the second Exposure Lights Big Night Out nocturnal enduro. As an additional attraction, there’s the opportunity to join a group led by Specialized Starlets Jenn O’Connor and Kate Potter. They’ll be raising money for Mountain Rescue and leading a women’s social group as part of the event.

Jenn says, “Supporting the local Mountain Rescue team seemed an obvious choice, and it will help raise awareness of safety in the hills and the valuable work that those guys do, as well as encouraging women riders to get out and get involved.”

Starlets by Starlight is a social group ride – anyone who has entered the ELBNO can ride with Jenn and Kate, and enjoy the support and company of other like-minded riders in a no-drop, no-race group. The group is aimed primarily at women, but anyone is welcome to join in. Jenn and Kate will be in the sign-on tent on Saturday afternoon, and riders who would like to join the group can register with the Starlets when they sign on. There is no additional charge, but all riders must officially enter the event if they wish to join in, and everyone will be encouraged to make a small donation to the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue team.

Exposure Lights Big Night Out and Merida Marathon information and entry forms are at www.mtb-marathon.co.uk. You can find out more about Mountain Rescue at www.mountain.rescue.org.uk.