The countdown is on to this year’s Dairi-Pak Mountain Bike Challenge – and this year, for the first time, the Advertizer has officially joined forces with the organisers as its media partner.

Now in its 26th year, the annual fundraiser for the Midlands Air Ambulance, is organised by the Borderland Rotary Club and features a 22-mile course mainly on off-road tracks through the Berwyn Mountains that is guaranteed adrenaline rush for competitors.

For those looking at the competitive nature of the challenge, last year’s winner James Martin completed the course in one hour and 35 minutes.

Jonathan Jones, from the Rotary Club, said: “We initially decided we wanted to do something because we were raising money for helmets and Cycling Proficiency with schools.

“We started out based in Llanarmon DC, but then moved it to Rhiwlas where we’ve been ever since and it was around that time that we decided to fundraise for the Midlands Air Ambulance because of being in a rural area.

“It just grew and grew from there.”

Jonathan continued: “I think the best year we’ve had saw 209 people take on the course and that year we raised £10,000, but most years we get over 100 taking part.

“Some people do it on their own and some do it as a group of friends or colleagues.

“The route hasn’t really changed either because most years people are new to it.”

The race this year will begin at Rhiwlas Village Hall on Sunday, May 11.

But it wouldn’t be possible without the support of marshals, landowners and, of course, Dairi-Pak.

Jonathan added: “We do have a very good relationship with the landowners and sponsors Dairi-Pak, which makes a big difference to what we do and we are very grateful to them.”

So what are you waiting for? Sign up today for this year’s challenge by visiting www.borderlandrotary.co.uk/bikeride.php where you can also donate.

And don’t forget to keep an eye out for more features ahead of the event in the Advertizer over the next few weeks.