Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge

Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge just got bigger

Over 100 riders rose to the challenge of this years’ charity ride, which saw some changes to the normal format of the event and a mass start saw all the riders start at the same time and power into the hills just west of Oswestry, Shropshire on the twenty-two-mile challenge. The event, which raises much needed funds for Midlands Air Ambulance and other local good causes, attracted riders from all parts of the UK. The event is attracting a strong following within MTB circles and last-minute signups swelled the number of riders well above last years’ total.

Tim Gray, Owner of Dairi-Pak Ltd, and long-time sponsor of the event said, “This is the largest turnout for some years, and the changes we have made to the event seem to have been well received - reducing the cost of entry, the mass start, having coffee from the Mean Bean Coffee van, delicious food from Shropshire Supports Ukraine and music from the Ravers2Runners crew were all a big hit. The St John’s Ambulance team were there in force to ensure riders were safe and well cared for in the event of injury - the whole event had a fresh and a fun festival atmosphere. My father Brian Gray came up with the idea of the event way back in the early ‘90s and it’s stood the test of time and grown into a much-anticipated date on the MTB calendar. With the invaluable assistance of James Davies from Mule Cycles of Oswestry, we are making changes to ensure the future of the event and swell numbers to 200 riders in the very near future. I thoroughly enjoy taking part in the event and am now responsible for riding at the back of the field as ‘sweeper’ or ‘tail-end Charlie’ to ensure there is assistance for those struggling with their bikes or their fitness and checking that all riders are accounted for at the end of the event”.

The event is organised by Borderland Rotary Club, and Jonathan Jones, who heads up the team said, “It was a great event this year and everyone seemed to have a really good day, but we mustn't forget that what we're trying to do is raise money for good causes like Midlands Air Ambulance and local groups. I’d also like to thank all the landowners, for letting us use this route, Rhiwlas Village Hall, Raynet communication, everyone who helped setup and run the show but most of all, I want to thank all the riders who came from near and far to make it such a success. See you all next year, the Saturday after the May Bank Holiday – put it in your diaries now, please!”

Tim Gray - Sponsor and "Sweeper" on the Challenge