The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)

Glaurious day as mountain bikers take on Muckmedden

Described as ‘unconventi­onal’ by the organisers, the popular Fair City Enduro took place for the fourth time.

- Richard burdge rburdge@thecourier.co.uk

Splattered in mud, hundreds of cyclists could be seen making their way down from Perth’s Kinnoull Hill on Saturday after another successful Muckmedden Fair City Enduro.

A bike race described as “unconventi­onal” by its organisers, the event was open to everyone ranging from competent novices to advanced riders.

Staged in the city for a fourth consecutiv­e year, the main Enduro race started with a gentle cycle through the streets of Perth before heading to the hills of Deuchney woods and Kinnoull to enjoy six timed stages.

Taking place around Halloween, the Enduro is like a weird daydream full of breathtaki­ng trails, breathtaki­ng views and even more breathtaki­ng outfits.

And it is guaranteed to be the only race where you see Dracula on the entry list.

When the riders — many of whom were in fancy dress — had completed all six stages they then travelled back to the Lesser South Inch for the chance to complete a final stage within the event village.

Riders of all ages enjoyed racing action on the ‘hot lap challenge’ which took place on a purpose-built mobile bike track in the event village.

Cyclists were allowed several practice laps of the track before posting a timed ‘hot lap’ which was posted onto a Top Gear style leaderboar­d.

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.

“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.”

 ?? Picture: Steve MacDougall. ?? Some of the cyclists setting off.
Picture: Steve MacDougall. Some of the cyclists setting off.
 ?? Picture: Steve MacDougall. ?? A stormtroop­er takes off.
Picture: Steve MacDougall. A stormtroop­er takes off.

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