Border Bikers gear up for 24-hour race

The 7stanes mountain bike team face a tough challenge this weekend when they attempt a gruelling 24-hour race. The endurance event – Sleepless in the Saddle – will see the team compete against bikers from across the UK to achieve the fastest lap times possible, while aiming primarily to keep going throughout the night. The race, through Catton Park, Derbyshire, will follow a relay format, with riders completing one lap each before passing the baton to another team member. The 7stanes team consists of local Borders riders Julie Cartner, Chris Ross, Steven Halsall, Ally Booth and 7stanes development co-ordinator for the Borders Andy Wardman. As well as taking part in the race itself, the team will be promoting the world famous 7stanes routes across the south of Scotland, where there are trails for all abilities. The 7stanes project ties in with Forestry Commission Scotland’s Active Woods campaign to help improve the nation's health and well-being by encouraging more people to enjoy activities in Scotland’s national woods and forests. Andy, 25, says the team are fairly confident but realise how big a challenge lies ahead. He said: “I did Sleepless in the Saddle a couple of years ago but for some of the team it’s their first time and it’s a tough slog. “You can be making good lap times but all it takes is one tough night lap or for your lights to fail on you for this to change. “We’re hoping to do reasonably well in the race and we’re also going to spread the message of how great the 7stanes trails in Scotland are and how much fun they are to ride. “Forestry Commission Scotland’s Active Woods campaign is encouraging people to take exercise in Scotland’s woodlands and mountain biking is a great way to improve overall fitness and well-being.” The race will start at 2pm on Saturday (August 12) and finish 24 hours later. Each lap is expected to take 45-60 minutes and bikers will complete a lap each before passing the baton on to a teammate. Each rider has to complete a minimum of two laps over the 24 hours but teams can put riders forward in any order, allowing riders more recovery time if necessary. Andy added: “There’s always a great atmosphere at this race and although some teams enter with clear strategies, others simply aim to keep going for the 24 hours. “For us, it will be a bit of both but we will definitely be looking to put in some fast laps.” For more information about the 7stanes project see the website – www.7stanes.gov.uk