World Cup course opens to the public

Mountain bike fans are in for a rare treat – chance to tackle thrilling sections of the newly created course destined to host the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Cup in Dalby Forest next month (24 – 26 April). The Forestry Commission has opened nearly 80 per cent of the tough 6.5 kilometre route to keen bikers rejoicing in fearful names like Medusa's Drop and Worry Gill. Riders are also being urged to sign up to take part in the Dalby Dare on 24 April offering an amazing opportunity to ride the whole course as part of a larger circuit and compare their time ahead of the elite riders, who will be racing the following day. Alan Eves, Forest Management Director, said: "The trail is looking absolutely fantastic and the feedback we've had from test riders is that this is world class test of skill and stamina. We have also designed the course to give spectators brilliant vantage points to watch the action." Over 2,000 tonnes of locally sourced stone has been used to surface the trail and sustainable techniques used to make it more durable. The design was finalised after months of careful planning work and environmental assessments were carried out to ensure bikers steer clear of sensitive wildlife and archaeological sites. The trail has been incorporated into Dalby's 55 kilometre mountain bike network, opened in 2007 at a cost of £400,000 and acclaimed as some of the best single-tracks in England. British Cycling is working in close partnership with UK Sport, Welcome to Yorkshire, Yorkshire Forward and the Forestry Commission, with the support of a number of local partners including Ryedale Council and North Yorkshire County Council, to deliver the UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Cup. To register for the Dalby Dare go to www.yorkshiremtbworldcup.co.uk. Spectator day and weekend passes for the World Cup event are also available via the website or by calling 0844 847 2387 Photos: Bikers tackle sections of the World Cup course in Dalby. Pictures Tony Bartholomew.