Cyclists gearing up for return of popular mountain bike fundraiser near Oswestry

The Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge will take place on Saturday, May 10, starting at 10am at Rhiwlas Village Hall, near Oswestry.

Borderland Rotary Club first held the challenge in 1994 as a fun ride for members to raise money for local charities. 

But, the event has since grown to become extremely popular and the tough challenge it is today.

Cyclists will endure a gruelling 22-mile long route over green lanes and farm tracks, private land and down the foothills of the Berwyn Mountains.

The ride is available to riders of all competence, however, is not for the faint hearted with there being around only 300 metres of tarmac and approximately no more than that on level ground. 

Jonathan Jones, who organises the ride for Borderland Rotary Club said: "I still find the process of organising the challenge as exciting and daunting as I ever did and although we’ve been at it for many years, it’s never lost its charm and I still love to see hundreds of keen mountain bikers ride off into the Berwyn Mountains and raise thousands and thousands of pounds for charity. 

"With the support of such sponsors as Tim Gray from Dairi-Pak and Mule Cycles from Oswestry, we have been able to give charities like Air Ambulance a regular annual donation as well as supporting lots of local good causes."

Last year, the challenge celebrated its 30th anniversary.

It aims to be a challenge but also a wonderful social event for riders of all ages and competence to enjoy.

Jonathan added: "Why not put a team together, talk to your colleagues at work, talk to your boss, and if you are the boss, talk to the staff and get pedalling - it’s for a good cause, and it’ll be great fun. All you need is a bike, a helmet, and the heart of a lion!"

Shropshire residents can visit borderland-mtb-challenge.org to sign up.