New Developments For Southern MTB

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Planning for the Southern MTB race weekend is well underway, with the development of the new and improved route for the Urban Downhill and Southern Peaks Cross-country race.

This year, Australia’s only Urban Downhill course will be extended right through the main street of Albany, and will include course obstacles and jumps such as the truck from Kendall Trucking and mounds of dirt strategically placed through the city centre along York Street.

This improved course is guaranteed to attract high profile national and international riders to the Great Southern region. Spectators will also be in for a treat with the development of the first Event Village at the Albany Town Square.

The Event Village, which will be open for the entire three days of the Southern MTB, is sure to be a hub of activity over the weekend, with activities for kids, entertainment from bands and DJs, food vans, a bar and market stalls.

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On Saturday night, Village attendees will also have the best position to view the Jump Comp, a rare event to watch some of the best mountain bikers defy gravity. On Sunday, spectators at the Village will be in the best position to watch all the action of the Urban Downhill race.

The 50km cross country event will start on private Land at Maitraya Luxury Resort, winding up the coast giving riders spectacular views of the Southern Ocean, before joining the 30km riders at Emu Point and finally finishing at the boutique winery Oranje Tractor, where riders and their supporters can enjoy lunch and a glass of wine.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife have also granted access to an MTB event, giving special access to previously restricted land. With over 1100m of climbing, this race is suitable for riders of all levels, with plenty to challenge the more experienced and competitive riders. Competitors can register here.

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City of Albany Deputy Mayor Greg Stocks said the City was a proud supporter of this year’s Southern MTB. “The Albany Urban Downhill and associated events have significant economic and tourism benefits for Albany and are helping to achieve the objective set out in the Cycle City Albany Strategy adopted by Council in 2014 for Albany to be recognised as a prominent regional cycling destination.”

“It is also helping to promote mountain biking as a suitable recreational activity for the whole community. We hope to see more people out and about utilising Albany’s trails and gaining the benefits physical activity while experiencing our natural wonders.”

For further information regarding the event and all the other events taking place during the weekend please visit southernmtb.com.au