Steve Peat Rocking In The Free World

News from over the border…

Downhill mountain biking’s most successful competitor and reigning World Champion Steve Peat rolled into Scotland today (Monday 22nd March) to mark the official launch of the UCI Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup 2010.

Sheffield-born Steve stopped off north of the border to show off the world-class skills that have led to him being crowned the most successful Downhill competitor ever, (with more than 50 podium results in World Cups and World Championships) and helped to kick-off ticket sales for the 9th annual World Cup.

He and hundreds of other professional mountain bikers will return to the scenic Scottish Highlands on 5 – 6th June 2010, for the multi award-winning event – an adrenaline-packed weekend of world-class Downhill and 4-Cross action which this year features a new Downhill Rock & Roll theme.

As he prepares to head off around the globe on the competitive mountain bike circuit, Steve said he can’t wait to get back to Fort William: “Scotland has some of the best biking terrain in the world, and there’s a real enthusiasm for the sport here which always makes for a brilliant atmosphere. It always helps to have a vocal UK crowd – especially when I’m going to be defending my title!”

Last year’s event attracted more than 18,500 fans to Fort William, and generated an estimated £2.5 million* for the local economy.

Mike Jardine of organisers Rare Management said the World Cup is much more than a sporting event: “Steve’s such a hero in the mountain biking community we’re sure the crowds will be even bigger as they come to cheer him on as reigning World Champion. It’s all shaping up for a really entertaining and exciting two days, both for fans of the sport and those who’re simply after an action-packed day out or weekend away.”

Tickets for the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup are now on sale at the new look event website www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk where event-goers can also find out more about this year’s programme, tickets, the course and competitors as well as travelling to the event and accommodation in the local area.