Mabie Skills Area launches Friday 27th July

We are pleased to announce the official launch of the skills area at Mabie Forest at 2pm on Friday, 27th July as part of the activities on Mabie Magic Day. The area will be opened by Jackie Meekison of the Scottish Mountain Bike Leaders' Association (SMBLA). With a 500m long blue-graded trail with red grade options, including drop-offs, a mini slab, step ups, step downs and steeper inclines to practise gear shifts, the new area is ideal for improving all kinds of mountain biking techniques.  New and intermediate riders will be able to hone their skills before riding the trails or moving up to the next trail grade.  Interpretation panels provide guidance to riders on how best to tackle the obstacles they'll face. There's also a fantastic new 300m long freeride line.  It has 13 features along its length and is packed with jumps - a great attraction for riders wanting to practise their jumping.  A black-graded north shore line is also planned, to be built soon by volunteers. The new area is just a short distance from the café near the trail head. All are welcome to the launch, particularly those with a business interest in skills coaching or guiding in the area.  There will be free skills coaching sessions available, on a first come first served basis.  If you have a guiding business and would like to be a part of the event, please get in touch with Robin Fuller on 01387 860247 or Julie Cartner on 01387 272440.  Visit Forestry Commission Scotland's website for more information on Mabie Magic Day.