Top bikers in Llan for British race final

* Ace rider Matt Simmonds burns up the track.

Over 300  of the UK’s top bike riders will be heading for Llangollen next weekend (September 22 and 23) for the final round of the British Downhill Series.

They will face a tough challenge on the steep and loose terrain and the all-new “Squirrel track” which is being introduced specially for the event.

The national series is widely regarded as the most prestigious in the world.

British riders are currently dominating the world cup scene in both the male and female categories.

Many of the UK’s fastest riders will be competing at Llangollen and will  provide some thrilling racing for spectators.

One of those in action will be Steve Peat, a downhill mountain bike legend who has more world cup podiums than any other rider in history and has now represented Great Britain in 20 World Championships.

Team Chain Reaction Cycles riders will again be fighting for the win with Matt Simmonds leading the way and hoping to win the elite series title.

Adam Brayton, the winner of Rd 3 and Rd 4 of the Halo BDS, will be looking to overtake Simmonds in the points and also take the title.

The Llangollen track is the steepest in the UK and is a high speed affair negotiating tight sections littered with drops and jumps before the riders descend into the finish field.

Live timing and commentating creates an exciting atmosphere.

It is free to come and spectate, with a race village and team pit area where you can see the riders, ask for signed autographs as well as a retail village for stocking up on bike parts, accessories, body armour, helmets and casual clothing.

The venue opens on Friday and practice takes place all day on Saturday with entertainment in the evening.

On Sunday riders have a short practice session before racing begins with a seeding run at 11 and the finals at 2.30pm.

Heading to Llangollen Pass through the village of Froncysllte and three miles later see the Llangollen Golf Club on the right below the road.

After the bends following the golf club, take a left turn approximately one mile before Llangollen on to Maesmawr Road. Follow the signs for Tyn Dwr Outdoor Activity Centre (UCLAN). Pass the entrance to UCLAN and the event field is half a mile further on.

Event location:

O/S Co-Ordinates are Grid Reference SJ 231 405 nearest postcode: LL20 8AR

About the Halo British Downhill Series

• 6 races per year through-out the UK

• An additional National Championships race

• Current World Champion is British

• 300+ riders at each round

• 1,500 + spectators at each round

• 2000+independent bike shops around the UK

• Family and youth appeal as well as participating sports fans