Mountain biking venue leaves contenders trailing in the dust

Fort William has claimed the title for the best Downhill Mountain Bike World Cup in the global series for the second year in a row.

The accolade comes from the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) and was voted for by Elite MTB Teams, the top five ranked riders, UCI sponsors and staff.

The West Highland race was preferred to the likes of Lourdes in France, Lenzerheide in Switzerland, MontSainte-Anne in Canada, and Cairns, Australia.

The majority of voters agreed that Fort William’s course, team area, crowds, atmosphere and general organisation were all superior to the others.

That makes it the sixth time it has won the accolade and now it can add another after winning the Best Sporting Event at this year’s Highland and Islands Tourism Awards.

The award took into account evidence of media attention and the benefits to Scotland’s visitor economy.

Mike Jardine, from the organisers Rare Management, said: “Being crowned as the UCI’s Best Downhill Mountain Bike event for a second year is truly fantastic.

“On top of that, we’re delighted to receive recognition at home in the Highlands.

“These awards are testament to the hard work of all of the fans, volunteers, riders, sponsors and partners who continue to make this event a truly legendary and memorable experience.” He added: “It confirms Scotland and the Highland’s world-class reputation and status as a bike-friendly destination for visitors from across the globe.”

The UK’s only Mountain Bike World Cup takes place on the slopes of Aonach Mor at the Nevis Range ski area just a few miles outside Fort William.

It attracted more than 23,000 people over three days this year and has brought in a net economic impact to the local economy of £37million since starting in 2002.

“Testament to hard work of fans, volunteers, riders, sponsors”

RIDING HIGH: Competitor at Fort William, which has won the vote twice in a row