It only seems like yesterday that I was lining up with a group of suitably like-minded MTBers at Beachy Head watching the sun setting while waiting for the start of the inaugural MaXx Exposure, then the latest event in Trail Break’s packed calendar.

For 2009 the event reaches its fifth year when it goes ahead on 26 September, and entry is now open for the one of a kind 80 mile night ride. Starting at sunset, riders have all night to make it back to the event HQ in Queen Elizabeth Country Park before sunrise.

Supported by Exposure Lights, the MaXx features support stations along the route, special hi-viz night signage, GPS routes and tail riders to keep you on the right track. There are transport options to get you to the start, camping space at the finish and a finishers breakfast to remember. And if the 80 miles is too much, there’s a shorter 40 mile and 20 mile MaXx Pub Ride as well.

“It’s a unique event with an amazing atmosphere,” says Trail Break. “The South Downs Way is an iconic mountain bikers challenge and takes on an even greater aspect at night, feeling bigger, more open and remote than ever. It’s a physical and psychological test, but determination is the key to seeing it through.

“During the course of ride you’ll dodge wildlife and shadows in the woods, wonder at the size of the next unseen climb and savour the spice of each descent unfolding in your light beam! And if the experience of the trail alone is not surreal enough, wait until you get to the barbeque, cake shop or disco themed checkpoints (new themes may apply in 2009!).

“You may well go through a range of highs and lows over the distance, but at the finish there’s a sense of achievement few events can match, in beating one of the sports great trails in the course of a night.”

Enter now at www.trailbreak.co.uk or call 0118 976 2491.