This weekend is one of the highlights of the Irish XC racing scene as EPIC MTB club host the National Championships in Djouce Woods, Co.Wicklow.

Djouce woods is known for its fantastic trails and the race course will not disappoint.  All those who have had a sneak peak have proclaimed it as a real mountain bikers course with tons of technical singletrack, tough kicker climbs and interesting problems that will keep the racing hard and furious for the duration.

Below is a video shot by mtb legend and head-honcho of Epic Richie Byrne.  The rider in view unfortunately suffered a dislocated shoulder on Wednesday evening (not on the course for those of you who are now perspiring), get well soon Carol!

Nationals Trail part 1 from Richie Byrne on Vimeo.

The Epic crew have been hard at work for the past few months making sure it is up to scratch and that regardless of the weather conditions it will be a fantastic event.

Hard at work creating MTB mecca

But this year it is not just about the race course, the club have delivered the full racing experience with a trade village, team (club) village, bouncy castles, face painting and a skills loop for the kids and giant screens at the start/finish which will relay action from out around the course.  There is a competition to win a saddle skedaddle MTB holiday for two to the UK and did we mention that we are sponsoring the most improved rider prize?  The first 200 riders to register online will receive a Piranha bike products cow bell, forget your vuvuzela, this is what every sports fan wants!

Pre-ride is available on the Saturday with racing on Sunday.  Do not miss this, it will be the event of the year!