The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Rocket launches Fort event
Hart can’t wait to compete in front of Highland crowds
World downhill champion Danny Hart visited Edinburgh yesterday to launch this year’sUCIFortWilliam Mountain Bike World Cup.
Hart, known as the Redcar Rocket, was crowned world champion in 2016 and won three of the seven legs of the World Cup tour.
He visitedHolyrood Park in the capital to help promote this year’s event, whichtakes placeonJune3 and 4.
With just over two months to go before thousands of enthusiasts and 250 elite riders from 25 different nations descend on Fort William, the 25-yearold, from Teesside, hopes to take home his first title on home soil at this year’s event.
Hart, who finished third last year, said: “Last season ended on a real high forme becoming world champion and I’m looking to repeat that success and keep the momentum going on the downhill circuit this time round.
“The Fort WilliamWorld Cup is a big race formeand is the one I look forward to most on the calendar as it’s a chance to race in front of a home crowd.
“It’s an extra special event with a legendary atmosphere thanks to all of the followers who make the pilgrimage to theHighlands.
“I’m looking forward to catching up with family and friends and, hopefully, weget a repeat of last year’s sunny weather.”
The 2016 women’s downhill world champion, Rachel Atherton, will also be among the 250 riders whowill navigate rock, ruts and jumps down the slopes of Aonach Mor.
Almost 22,000 people attended last year’s event – a record attendance – andorganiserMike Jardine, from Rare Management, is expecting even bigger crowds this year with a 15% rise on earlybird ticket sales.
He said: “We’ve got the two world champions, Danny and Rachel, leading the home charge in Fort William this year so the chance of British winners has never been better.
“We want the campaign behind this year’s strapline Home of the Brave to reflect thepowerandprestige of the top British riders and the depth of talent we have.
“They are the stars who create the excitement of the weekend on the slopes of Aonach Mor, one of the most iconic venues in the world.
“Since launching tickets for this year’s event, we’ve had an incredible response from supporters around the world and it’s pleasing to hear that so many are looking to join us again for what will be another unforgettable mountain bike experience for all the family.”
The event, which is supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate, and Highland Council is the second stage on the UCI World Cup downhill calendar.
“An event with a legendary atmosphere thanks to all of the followers”