The final round of the Irish MTB XC NPS takes place this Sunday the 28th September in Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down. The course is similar to the one constructed by XMTB for the final K-Capital race in April, however a number of new sections have been added and changes made following the heavy rains that caused the cancellation of the initial date.  Banbridge CC have now taken over he running of events at this venue from XMTB.

 All Senior classes plus U-14 and U-16 will compete over the full course, while the U-12 and U8/U10 riders will have their own courses. The start/finish area will be based on the fire road normally used for the start.The final drop down through the trees to the lake remains the same, though instead of riding onto the lake road, riders will take a different path to the finish via the small track that leads up to the stony bridge. No news yet as to whether the renowned steep climb from the start has been changed.

Racing gets underway with the U-8 event at 11am; this will be followed by the U-10s. The U-12 race starts at 11.30am. The U-16 race sets off at noon followed at 12.01pm by the Sports Men and 12.02 by the Sports Women. The U-14 race starts at 12.03pm. The Elite Men’s event starts at 1.30pm followed by the Elite Women/Junior at 1.31pm, Experts 1.32pm, Masters 1.33pm and Vets at 1.34pm. While there is no official practice on Saturday, riders are free to take a look at their own risk. On Sunday sign on will be open from 9.30am. Only riders signed on will be permitted access to the course on Sunday. Due to the constantly changing weather conditions, race laps will be decided closer to the race after consultation between the orgainsers and the race commissaire.

Castlewellan Forest Park is signposted from the main street in the town. Forest Service staff will direct mtb event traffic to the Crow Road, the car parking found at the end of this road. Should weather conditions not be favourable, the normal overflow car park will be the main car park. Castlewellan also offers camping, making it even more attractive for those travelling from the South.