2009 Kielder Marathon Season

Beat the chill and work up a sweat by taking part in a mountain bike event in Kielder Water & Forest Park.

The Forestry Commission is hosting the first leg of the 2009 Kielder Marathon Season over 33 miles of spectacular Border terrain on Saturday 24 January.

Dubbed the “Winter Warmer”, the race is organised by the Kielder Trail Reavers and sponsored by the Bike Place in Kielder.

And this year there’s an added incentive for bikers to saddle up – part of the route will include a section of the new “Blue” trail, which as yet is unopened to the public. It is being constructed by the Kielder Partnership as part of a £850,000 investment in off-road routes in the 62,000-hectare (155,000-acre) wilderness.

Ian Bell, from the Kielder Trail Reavers, said: “The event is aimed squarely at bikers of intermediate ability and upwards, offering them the chance to complete three laps of the route in the quickest time. It’s a great way to start the year and experience Northumberland’s fabulous winter landscape.”

Prizes will be awarded for a first three finish in any of the five race categories which include men aged 17 – 39, 40 – 49 and 50 plus. Females compete in the 17 – 39 age group, or in the over 40 year old section. Points are also awarded which are carried forward to the three other races in the Marathon series held later in the year. The overall winner will be decided in October’s finale. The entry fee is £22 which includes hot food and refreshments. All proceeds are split between the Trail Reavers and Great North Air Ambulance.

To register go to www.thebikeplace.co.uk or contact the Bike Place on 0845 6341895.