After moving from MTBs to road racing and time trialling over last 5 years I’m going to redabble in some mtb racing. Specifically team 24hr stuff for a bit of fun. What would be cheapest possible race xc mtb setup. Ive only got a specialized rockhopper comp that i use for family rides with the tag along. Would this do with some mods like better wheels and better fork? Or get something lile a chinese carbon frame and second hand parts? Opinions welcome.

I’ve got a race bike and a pair of wheels for sale, cheapish.

http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/carbon-hardtail-and-a-pair-of-hope-wheels

2nd hand carbon 29er XC HT will be way more bang for your buck than upgrading the Rockhopper!

I reckon £1k will get you something more than up to the job.

Fly to australia, buy my bike, have a holiday and then head back?
https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/hobart-cbd/men-s-bicycles/rocky-mountain-element-950-rsl-2015-medium/1159838014
Bargains everywhere 😉

Serious answer… bikes depriciate and entire bikes do so more than parts. Unless you have a long time and lots of patience I’d look at something that is ready to roll.