Sunset Dual Slalom returns to Hay-on-Wye

An afternoon of high-octane, pedal-powered fun is promised as dual slalom cycle racing returns to Hay-on-Wye in two weeks’ time.

Hay’s Drover Cycles and Trewern Outdoor Education centre in Cusop have teamed up to host the event - badged The Sunset Slalom - which is open to everyone aged five and up.

The short course can be raced on any bicycle, but the grass track favours mountain bikes and BMXs.

The first Sunset Slalom went down a storm at April’s Hay Bike Fest, with visiting reporter Dave Jaquin from national mountain bike magazine Dirt bagging first place.

Joe Lally, of Wye Valley Canoes in Glasbury, took second.

Organiser Brock Sandeman, Drover’s new store manager, said: ‘It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, or what bike you ride, this is an event anyone take part in. We want it to be a real family occasion.’

A dual slalom sees riders racing head-to-head through a series of tight turns.

Organisers promise a range of age categories - with winners’ medals and prizes for the fastest riders in each.

Trewern will be warming up their wood-fired oven and serving fresh pizza from midday.

And riders will be able to quench their thirst with local ales from Whitney-based Jones the Brewer.

The race arena will be open for practice runs and registration from 12pm, with the first races at 2pm. Cycle helmets are compulsory.

Organisers anticipate a lot of demand and recommend entering in advance at Drover on Forest Road for just £3.

On-the-day entry will cost £5.

Visit facebook.com/sunsetslalomhay or facebook.com/drovercycles to keep up to date with the latest info.