Bikers gear up for 10 Under The Ben Challenge

Mountain bikers of all levels will descend on Lochaber this weekend for one of Scotland's toughest riding challenges.

Leanachan Forest, near Fort William, is gearing up for the second annual 10 Under the Ben challenge, to be held on Saturday June 17.

Taking its name from Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, in whose shadow it will be held, 10 Under the Ben invites bikers to ride as many circuits of a 10-mile loop as they can in 10 hours.

Leanachan Forest, managed by the Forestry Commission Scotland, is considered one of the best mountain bike routes in the UK and the trail will take in the famous Witch's Trail, the cross country track used for the mountain biking World Cup event in May.

From mountain bike enthusiasts to those who haven't been on a bike since their school days, the event caters for all levels of riders and includes categories for juniors, enthusiasts and experts.

The programme for spectators is equally action-packed, with big screen coverage of the race and a ceilidh band after the race on Saturday

Forestry Commission Scotland boasts some of the best mountain bike trails in the UK and is hosting 10 Under the Ben in partnership with mountain bike events group No Fuss and Highland Council.

Kirsty Barr, of Forestry Commission Scotland, said:
"More than 800 people have already entered 10 Under the Ben and there is still time for last-minute entries before the race on Saturday. "Veteran bikers will be battling it out during the 10-hour endurance event but this is an event for everyone, from groups of friends looking for an adrenaline rush to families who want to enjoy a weekend in the outdoors. "It is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to try competitive biking for the first time and with some of Scotland's most stunning scenery surrounding the forest, you couldn't ask for a more inspiring backdrop. "With summer finally here, it's the perfect time to get outdoors and this is just one of dozens of events hosted by the Forestry Commission in forests across Scotland."

Leanachan Forest will offer 10 Under the Ben entrants a rider-friendly combination of forest roads, single track and plenty of ascents and descents.

The race starts at 9am and finishes between 7pm and 8.30pm, with a prize giving and ceilidh afterwards.

The majority of riders are expected to enter in teams and complete the course in relay, with one rider on the course at a time.

Entry fees range from £30 for single riders to £80 for teams of four and entries will be accepted up to and including Friday.

For details of how to enter and further information on the event see www.10undertheben.com or call 01397 704008.