Scotland better than Canada

Mountain biking in Scotland has achieved "Global Superstar" status according to an independent international report. The 2005 IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) report card has given Scotland an A grade for "outstanding mountain biking and successful bicycling advocacy." The report also states that one of the big factors in achieving this has been a "bike-friendly forestry department". Last year, Scotland won top honours by being awarded the People's Choice award in IMBA's online poll, but the new global superstar status is another step up the mountain bike ladder taking over from British Columbia, regarded by many as the best place to go biking in the world. The 7stanes partnership project, which is building seven biking centres in Forestry Commission Scotland woodlands across the south of Scotland, also gets praise for providing outstanding trails. The "brilliant scenery" of the Scottish Highlands is highlighted as another attraction for mountain biking in Scotland. Karl Bartlett, Forestry Commission Scotland's cycling development officer was thrilled to bits with the award: "This is fantastic news and everyone involved in putting Scottish mountain biking on the world map should take a bow. Credit also goes to bikers in Scotland who have helped create such an amazing buzz about biking in Scotland. "Mountain biking in Scotland is still developing and the potential for boosting Scotland's tourism is obvious. We estimate that the 7stanes project in the south of Scotland has created well over £6 million to the Scottish economy each year." Under the 7stanes project there are now biking centres in Forestry Commission Scotland woodlands in the following forests: Glentress; Newcastleton; Dalbeattie; Ae; Mabie; Kirroughtree and: Glentrool in Galloway Forest Park. There are also Commission biking trails in West Argyll, Laggan, Fochabers, the Black Isle and at Leanachan Forest where the mountain bike world cup is held each year. www.7stanes.gov.uk www.imba.com