For the first time in the history of mountain bike racing, a round of the National Cross Country Series is coming to Redruth on the weekend of 26th and 27th April 2013.

Previously, the series has ventured as far as Plymouth, but this year we are able to witness some of our 2012 Olympians racing their bikes on Cornish soil.

Wheal Maid valley is the venue for the event, which is fully supported by Gwennap Parish Council and Cornwall Council. While there will be Olympians, elite / pro cyclists and a smattering of international riders on show, there will still be race categories for riders from less than eight to over 60 years of age and all levels of ability will find a category suitable for their abilities.

Cross country racing requires a mixture of physical fitness and technical ability, and the terrain around Wheal Maid will provide a suitable challenge for the riders, as well as showcase Cornwall as one of the UK’s top riding destinations. The course is usually around 5 km in length, a mixture of ups and downs, and riders will be racing for anything between 45 minutes and two hours. Racing starts on Saturday afternoon, with the campsite opening on Friday evening and entry for spectators is free.

In the run-up to the big day there is a test event on 7th April in the same location in the guise of Round 1 of the South West mountain bike series. Run on exactly the same circuit, this will give south-west riders a sneaky preview of the course and put them one step ahead of their rivals.

For the locals, there will inevitably be an amount of path closure in the area. Certain paths need to be closed for the safety of riders and general public, although all official rights of way will remain open. There will also be increased traffic in the area on both weekends, and we hope that local people will embrace the event and the increased exposure it will bring to the area.

All event details are at www.fullysussed.co.uk