2018 Mountain Bike Races Champs – Plan and Schedule

If you are planning on competing, be sure to take note of the event schedule (read on further for this), and the all-important rules for the MTB races. Follow this link here to visit our dedicated page that walks you through the rules, course details, equipment needed, etc. Do read this so you are absolutely clear on what to bring along and the mountain bike specific rules.

Note that mountain bikes will be on loan from the Mechanics, however please note that there is a limited stock so if you do borrow a club bike, you will need to return it ASAP after your race. There is no charge for those being used for Club Champs events.

All races start and finish near the Judge’s Hut at the apron. There are 2 courses for the mountain bike races: a short course for U6 and U8 riders that will be raced in the bowl, and a longer course for U10 and older age categories that will extend to include various off-road sections around the circuit. Everything will be marked with arrows and signs to avoid confusion. Both courses will incorporate fast flowing sections, exciting technical features, and the choice of A (technically challenging) or B (easier) lines. British Cycling XC rules regarding A or B lines will apply so make sure you are clear on the rules.

After sign on, every rider should make their way to the start / finish line near the judges hut for 9.30am for the main briefing where the rules will be explained. Do not ride on the course before the briefing. All riders will have a chance to ride the course from around 9.40am with a Club Official, where they will be guided through the circuit and get an opportunity to test the technical features and decide which line to take during the race. Younger age category races kick off at 10am so be sure you allow enough time for this if planning to race. Note that recon is not permitted while racing is in progress. Older riders will have plenty of time to reccy parts of the course not being used by younger racers. 

For the MTB Races Champs, you will be issued with 2 numbers (a board for your bike, a number for your back) at sign-on in the clubhouse, as well as a race-timing transponder. You will need to ensure you take extreme care with this, and parents we would appreciate your support when these are issued. You will be told where to fix your transponder to. There will be a few printouts available to help you on the day, and of course a few Volunteers on hand as well so don’t worry if you’ve never used one before. Once you have completed your race, you will need to return the transponder immediately.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  The transponders are expensive (£50 each) and members will not be allowed to sign-on again at the club whilst they have an non-returned transponder recorded.   Transponders are issued on the understanding that the rider is responsible for its care and return and assumes acceptance of liability for the cost of replacement in the event of loss.

Please note that there is no early performance session and no other coaching on Saturday. The only activities are the Mountain Bike Club Champs races; and the Skills Club Champs Challenge (details here) for those who didn’t manage to have a go in September.

As per previous races, we would encourage every one of you to give the Club Champs a go, even just for fun. Remember every event gains you some points – even just for taking part – and it’s all in the interest of healthy competition and FUN. There is an FAQ page here on the Club Champs you can refer to if you have any questions, but do feel free to talk to one of the volunteers and we’d be happy to help.