SPAM Winter Challenge – 18th December 2011

Billy Bragg did it (messed around on Salisbury plain (0.34)) Why don’t you ? This year you’re not going to have sick up the turkey and port Christmas excess like normal – the date has changed. Read on..
The SPAM Winter Challenge is Salisbury Plain’s classic Mountain Bike Enduro.

It’s a relaxed affair, held on all weather trails and offers a great fun day out. The riding isn’t particularly technical but the weather conditions can make it more challenging. You can choose to fly around your chosen route or take it at a more leisurely pace, it’s up to you. There are three distances to choose from: 25km, 35km and 50km.

The course is suitable for riders of all abilities including youngsters who can undertake either the 25km or 35km routes, providing they are with an accompanying adult (not recommended for under 8 years). There is also a family entry available on the 25km route for just £30 (2 adults and up to four children) making it great value. We are really keen to encourage youngsters to ride and would like to get more families involved. With that said, children and their accompanying adults should be aware that this is an off-road event with some steep climbs and kids should have had some experience of off-road riding before they embark on the course. With the right clothing, equipment and encouragement, we’re sure all riders will relish the challenge!

Safety at SPAM Biking events is a primary concern. There are lots of marshals out on the course and professional medics on standby at the start/finish area (helmets are compulsory).

The event also offers good quality food, an MTB trader for spares and kit and plenty of parking and toilets are available on site. Limited water is also available from containers but we ask that riders do bring a supply of their own. We also recommend spare warm dry clothing for after the event.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to local charities. In previous years we have given money to Wiltshire Air Ambulance, Help For Heroes, a number of local schools and pre-schools, Salisbury Hospital and The Lion’s Club to name but a few.

This event is normally held on the first Sunday of the year. This year that is not possible and so rather than working off their Christmas dinner in the New Year, participants can ‘pay for it’ beforehand!

Online Entry is available at www.spamwinterchallenge.co.uk (discount applicable) and is also available on the day.

The SPAM Winter Challenge often attracts in excess of 1000 riders of all ages and abilities  be part of this festive event and enter now!