Race Preview: The Empire Cycles Enduro Series 2014
Following the first ever Empire Cycles Enduro event over the weekend of April 26-27th, organisers Red Kite Events have announced a further improved format and plans for the rest of the series. Taking place in and around Britain’s smallest town, Llanwrtyd Wells, the first event proved a huge success with the riders and spectators alike. Now though says Red Kite, it’s time to step it up a notch!
The two remaining events in the series take place on 26-27th July and 25-26th October. Prices will be £40 for the two day or, new for round two In July, a Sunday only option of £30. Designed for trail riders, participants can expect scenic views and fairly relaxed transistions combined with long and challenging timed descents with plenty of rock gardens, steep drops, tight singletrack and fun, manmade sections thrown in. The descents are designed to be challenging but rollable and they can be ridden on mid to long travel trail bikes by a wide selection of abilities.
For the two day eventers, Saturday morning will be practice time on the first two sections (just on the outskirts of Llanwrtyd Wells) whilst the afternoon will see the same stages used for the first timed runs.Sunday will bring a 50K route including another four timed downhill sections. As a gravity style enduro, the linking stages will need to be pedaled of course but Red Kite have made them as easy as possible ensuring riders have plenty of time to get to the next stage. The odd downhill will be thrown in between the stages as well to add some fun. This will also be the same for Sunday only particpants.
With prizes for category winners and spot prizes up for grabs, riders will be sure to walk away from Britain’s smallest town with a heap of memories and maybe a medal or two. There is a free pasta meal on the Saturday night in the village hall plus a free beer. Camping is available with good showers and toilet facilities at only £5 per tent per night if pre-booked through the Red Kite website.
The series continues on the weekends of 26-27th July and 25-26th October and promises to deliver Mid Wales gravity at its very best whilst ensuring riders of most abilities can take something from every timed run. The feedback from Round One certainly backs this claim up!
More information on www.redkite-events.co.uk
Words & Pictures: PR Red Cloud Marketing & Communications
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
