Possibly the most daunting 24 hour race out there, the Strathpuffer 24 returns in 2009 on 17/18 January and moves back to its previous base at Contin, Scotland, and will use much of the course that proved popular earlier this year.

Several events almost led to the Strathpuffer 2008 being cancellend. In the organisers own words, “Last year Puffer nearly didn’t happen at all as certain events conspired to put the event in extreme jeopardy. Firstly, a new road which was to be used to create a one-way access system was not completed due to a delay in permissions. Our alternative one-way route was not usable on Friday due to several inches of thick ice, even after gritting. This meant that traffic was concentrated on one track and competitors could not get access until the contractors’ lorries had left. As one lorry had to be pulled from a ditch, things didn’t start well. This delay was bad enough but then, the wind got up and then the ice started to melt.”

So, for 2009 the event relocated to Contin, and the course will remain pretty much as before, but with some extensive work in places to ensure it’s rideable and entertaining.

Due to limited parking the organisers have had to put a limit on the number of available places. There’s 100 four-person team slots, 25 pairs and just 25 solo places available. There will be a one vehicle per team rule.

Entries will be available from 5 November at 12pm, and you can head over to www.strathpuffer.co.uk and pre-register.