Isle of WIght hosting final round of major cycling competition

On Sunday, July 14, the Island will host the final round of the Southern XC MTB Championships, organised by the Wightlink-Wight Mountain team.

It will be the largest MTB XC event ever held on the Island and should see over 150 of the best riders from the south of England take on a new 5km purpose-built course.

This will be at the Isle of Wight MTB Centre at Cheverton Farm near Shorwell.

As well as Elite riders competing for coveted trophies, there will also be races throughout the day for all age groups, from under 10s to over 60s, and riders can enter on the day.

Organisers Jerry and Julie Cooper said: "We've worked hard to secure a round here on the Island and couldn't have done it without the support of our sponsors, especially Wightlink, who made it possible for mainland riders to travel to the Island, and Wight Mountain who built the course.

Nadia Lele in action. (Image: John Lampard)

“It's fantastic to be part of the premier mountain bike series in the South of England this season and it will be a great opportunity to showcase our local talent.

“Our team members have already won and placed in the previous rounds and are looking to do well again next week.

“Nick Earley, Nadia Lele, and juniors Ewan Cook and Alfie Haydon, have put in solid performances in every round of the series, and most are in good stead to secure podium places.

“We're especially excited about watching our fearless little shredder Finley Manser-Grundy, who will be celebrating his sixth birthday on the day of the event, in action.

"The event is open to riders of all abilities and ages, so we're hoping the local cycling community will come along to have a go and also enjoy watching the experts in action.

“The team are proud supporters of Mountbatten and will make a donation from the entry fees, so the more entrants the more cash we raise for this amazing charity.”