BUILTH Wells will showcase the best mountain biking Mid Wales has to offer this weekend as the 2024 Hope MTB Marathon series kicks off.

The event is celebrating 25 years this weekend and includes the Hope MTB Marathon’s three distances on Sunday, April 14, with the Exposure Lights Big Night Out taking place on Saturday evening, April 13.

The weekend’s riding is hosted at Penmaenau Farm in Llanelwedd, just outside Builth.

“Builth Wells, the home of the long-distance mountain bike events and still one of the most anticipated events on the mountain bike calendar,” said event organisers Cycle-Tec Events Ltd.

“Based in the event organisers’ home playground, the rolling Mid Wales mountains have provided excitement to over 20,000 marathonists over the years.

County Times:  The 2024 Hope MTB Marathon series kicks off in Builth Wells this weekend and promises to be a mega fun event. The 2024 Hope MTB Marathon series kicks off in Builth Wells this weekend and promises to be a mega fun event. (Image: MTB-Marathon Series)

“With a mixture of classic trails and brand new single and double track bridleways the route will truly showcase the best riding in Mid Wales.”

This Sunday event offers three distances: the mini marathon, half marathon and full marathon.

The mini marathon is an exciting, family friendly introduction to a mountain bike event. Approximately 25km in distance; the half marathon is your first step towards the full marathon or for those who have a more casual approach to their riding. Approx 50km distance; while the full marathon is described as the real deal, a big distance with great trails.

“Whether you are training for your next race or want to challenge your endurance or fitness level, our events are for you,” added organisers.

“With a combination of gravel tracks, grassy descents, rolling hills and tricky technical sections, there is something for everyone – all ages and all skill levels.

“Make a weekend of it, bring the whole family, free camping and facilities included in the entry fee.”

County Times:  Riders on last year's Exposure Lights Big Night Out. Riders on last year's Exposure Lights Big Night Out. (Image: MTB-Marathon Series)

Online entries are closed but you can still register on the day, for an extra £5 fee. The Hope MTB Marathon runs from 10.30am-5pm. The Exposure Lights Big Night Out starts at 8pm, running until midnight.

Entry includes: event village (with caterers, bar and entertainment), trade stands, camping until Monday morning, showers and toilets, fully route marked courses, bike wash, medical support, finishers t-shirts, finisher times, feed stations (with Torq energy products), mechanical assistance, sweeper vehicle and event photography.

Registration opens from 2.30-7.30pm Saturday and from 8-9.30am Sunday.

Child tickets (under16) need to be added with a paying adult (the person who they will ride the entire event with) and only two children per adult (for insurance purposes).

For more details, visit the MTB-Marathon Series Facebook page, call 01982 554682, email Info@cycle-tec.co.uk or visit mtb-marathon.co.uk.