Pre View Schwalbe British 4X Series – Round 1 – Harthill, Cheshire

The 2015 4X season begins this weekend - 12th April with round 1 of the Schwalbe British Cycling 4X Series at Harthill in Cheshire.

After a fantastic 2014 season, the 2015 series has grown yet again, growth, in particular in the female categories has been fantastic in the last 12 months and we are looking forward to record numbers of female competitors again at Harthill on 12th April.

The Harthill track, last year, provided one of the best races of the entire year. Whilst the weather wasn't great, the racing more than made up for it and the atmosphere was fantastic. The track has a sand base which is great as no matter what the weather the track runs perfectly. With tight turns at the top, high speed in the mid section, pro line doubles and rhythm sections, this track has it all and will be the perfect start to 2015 British 4X season. The diggers have been in ahead of round 1 so expect some changes to the track.

Perhaps one of the main stories ahead of round 1 is that 2014 Schwalbe British 4X Series Champion, Scott Beaumont, will not be on the start line. A separated shoulder just 2 weeks ago means that the defending champion will be missing at round 1.

'The Schwalbe British 4X Series is one of my main focuses every year, but unfortunately; this year I will be missing round 1. I should be back for round 2 in Afan' said Scott earlier today.

So who will be the contenders?

Back to full fitness will be Lewis Lacey. After an injury plagued couple of seasons, Lewis comes into the season as one of the favourites. Rumour has it he is riding faster than ever, so look for the 414 plate of Lewis to be in contention for the win.

Nathan Parsons will surely be a threat once more. The strongest rider in 4X spends his days in the gym and nights at the track. Natedogg is always a crowd favourite and 2015, with a new bike and fresh motivation, could be his year. Duncan Ferris was the most improved rider in 2014. Winning his first ever 4X national in Falmouth last year Duncan will now be looking for the overall title., Will Evans, and Alex Metcalfe will all be there fighting for the win along with Paul Bakewell and Dave Richardson.

In Elite women's, Liz Fowler will be the favourite coming into 2015. In a breakthrough year in 2014, the National Champion will be looking to build on her success in 2014 and win the overall series as well in 2015. Cara Murray, the series champion in 2014 will be there looking to stop Liz we are sure! Heather Kay was flying in 2014 on the 4X ProTour circuit. Hopefully she will be doing the same in the UK in 2015. Clare Curtis and Mabel Mundy will all be fighting for wins too. The women's race is always unpredictable and offers some of the most exciting racing at every British round.

All British 4X rounds are accessible to all. From rippers aged 10 years and older, beginners who can enter Fun (12 to 17 year olds) and Big Fun (18+) all the way up to Vets, there is a class for you. With entry costs of £30 for pre entry, there is no cheaper way of racing your Mountain Bike all day long with no queues, great viewing for spectators and a fun atmosphere that will make you want to keep coming back for more.

To enter the race follow this link: www.britishcycling.org.uk