The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)

All wheels in motion as cycling fans saddle up for Perth challenge

Event is open to riders of all levels from novices to advanced

- Paul reoch preoch@thecourier.co.uk

A bike race described as “unconventi­onal” by its organisers will feature around 350 riders when it takes place in Perth.

The Muckmedden Fair City Enduro, which is open to everyone ranging from competent novices to advanced riders, is returning to the city for a fourth consecutiv­e year.

The main Enduro race kicks off at 9.30am on Saturday, October 22, with a gentle cycle through the streets of Perth, where up to 350 riders in varying states of fancy dress will head to the hills of Deuchney and Kinnoull to enjoy six timed stages.

When the riders have completed all six stages they will then travel back to the Lesser South Inch in Perth for the chance to complete a final stage within the event village.

Riders of all ages can also enjoy some race action on the ‘hot lap challenge’. This will take place on a purposebui­lt mobile bike track within the event village between 10am and 3pm on the day.

Cyclists will be allowed several practice laps of the track before posting a timed ‘hot lap’ which will be placed on to a Top Gear style leader board. Prizes will be awarded to the fastest three riders in each age category.

In addition, a special race circuit will be set up for young children with balance bike and pedal bike racing categories for those aged under three and kids who are under six years old.

And a women’s event will be held two weeks prior to the festival on Sunday, October 9, at 10am.

This is aimed at letting female cyclists familiaris­e themselves with the trails and get together with other like-minded female riders.

Aaron Gray, of organisers Muckmedden Events, said: “The Fair City Enduro brings hundreds of mountain bikers into Perth and creates such a buzz about the place.

“During Enduro weekend, every second car seems to have a mountain bike on its roof and as a local I love to see that.

“The event has contribute­d hugely to the local economy over the last four years thanks to the support of Perth and Kinross Council and the Forestry Commission and is now firmly establishe­d as a must-do event in the UK race calendar.

“It’s great for the flourishin­g mountain bike scene in Perthshire.”

The Fair City Enduro will be held at the Lesser South Inch, Perth.

For more informatio­n on the event visit www.muckmedden.co.uk/ourevents/fair-city-enduro/.

During Enduro weekend, every second car seems to have a mountain bike on its roof and as a local I love to see that. AARON GRAY

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