Mountain Bike Challenge Reaches Moray

Mountain biking fans are in for a treat this weekend as the last in a series of endurance bike races reaches a local forest. Over 200 riders will be taking part in the Ten More in Moray event – a challenging 10-hour circuit of a 10-mile stretch of mountain bike track in Ordiequish Forest near Fochabers on Saturday (August 11). Ten More in Moray has been organised by Forestry Commission Scotland in partnership with mountain bike events group No Fuss. It follows similar activities held in Lochaber’s Leanachan Forest in June and Galloway Forest Park in July, which saw hundreds of bikers face tough challenges on the Commission’s world-class mountain bike trails. The series of events has attracted not just hardcore bikers bent on proving themselves equal to a punishing test of endurance but a wide selection of enthusiastic amateurs, thanks to rules allowing teams of up to four people to ride in relays and special categories for junior entrants. Saturday's challenge looks set to be a great day for spectators, with large screens broadcasting the race and exciting footage of other biking activities, expert demonstrations of bike skills and trickery from professional bikers, and music and entertainment throughout the day. The event is also linked to the Commission’s Active Woods campaign, which aims to encourage more people to enjoy activities in Scotland’s national woods and forests. Rachael Jones, Forestry Commission Scotland, said: "Hundreds of people have entered the Ten Under series of events so far and many more have enjoyed a fantastic day out as spectators, so we’re expecting the final event here in Moray to be something special. "There's still time for solo riders and teams to register, and I'd advise anyone who fancies trying their hand at competitive biking to go online and sign up. You couldn't ask for a more inspiring backdrop than the stunning scenery in Ordiequish. "I hope that people who come along to watch the action will be inspired to return to the forest with their own bikes and enjoy the fantastic facilities available for cyclists of all abilities." The event will run from 9am to 7pm, with a prize-giving ceremony to be held after the races have finished. For more information about the event or to register an entry, visit www.nofussevents.co.uk or call 01397 772899