THE Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge was a resounding success over the weekend, as riders enjoyed a sunny day and beautiful hilly countryside just outside Oswestry.

The event took place on Saturday, May 13, starting and finishing at Rhiwlas Village Hall and took bikers on a 22-mile ride over natural trails, green lanes, and farm tracks, as well as going up and down the Berwyn Mountains.

Border Counties Advertizer: The banner for Borderland Mountain Bike ChallengeThe banner for Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge (Image: Borderland Rotary Club)

Jonathan Jones, organiser of the event for Borderland Rotary Club said: “We’ve been so lucky with the weather this year, and it’s brought lots of people out on the day.

“Of course, it’s not all luck and I want to thank all the farmers who let us ride over their land – it couldn’t happen without their input, and the marshalls, the caterers and Morrisons for the cakes, Valley Medical Services, Raynet comms, Graham Mitchell for the photos and all the members and friends of Borderland Rotary that helped make this such a great day.

“But most of all, I want to thank the riders for being so generous and entering into the spirit of the event.”

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Jonathan also thanked sponsors Aico, Mule Cycles’ technical help, and Tim Gray from Dairi-Pak, as he rode as 'Tail End Charlie on his e-bike.

Tim added: “It was a harder ride than anticipated cycling a heavy e-bike with no power, but this event was my father, Brian Gray’s, brainchild way back in 1994 and I hope he’s looking down on us today feeling very proud that the ride is still going and growing in popularity.

Border Counties Advertizer: Tim Gray at Borderland Mountain Bike ChallengeTim Gray at Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge (Image: Borderland Rotary Club)

“Dairi-Pak has been proud sponsors of the event since its inception, and I thoroughly enjoyed riding the route again after many years of absence.

“My dad rode the event until he was 71 - hopefully this will inspire others who may feel that their riding days are over to gird their loins once more, get an e-bike, and get back on the hill”.


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