Rivals ready for Down River Dash
People are preparing for the fourth Down River Dash challenge on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail tomorrow. Organiser John Douglas said for the keen competitors there was the time trial over 23km from the gravel pit with the pace promising to be competitive alongside a noncompetitive E-bike section, as well as family and recreational riders enjoying the trail. ‘‘The 16km competitive run from the Centre Hill turn off will run again this year.’’ Competitors will meet meet at the Mossburn golf course from 10am with a briefing at 11am for course directions, programme details and a Health and Safety briefing, with transport to the start line provided. ‘‘There will be a mass start at noon for runners from Centre Hill, followed by time trial cyclists starting at 20 sec intervals from 12.30pm, through the starting shute, followed by the recreational bikers,’’ he said. ‘‘People enjoy the fun and participation with the event suited to all ages and abilities, especially families who can go at their own speed.’’ The time trial has both men’s and women’s sections with cash prizes for the first three placings and a variety of spot prizes. ‘‘The enthusiastic team of volunteers has the event finely tuned now to ensure everything runs smoothly,’’ Douglas said. ‘‘A fine day with maybe a helpful tail wind will make for a relaxing ride or for the serious riders it will be flat, fast and furious.’’