Highland Perthshire Cycling has announced details of the first mountain bike enduro as part of this year’s Cycling Festival programme which runs from the 4th to the 11th of May. The event will take place over a 49km off road route on the fantastic trails surrounding the village of Dunkeld. The organisers, No Fuss Events from Fort William, promise “lung puffing climbs and smile inducing technical descents, laid back singletrack, fast fire road, stunning views and above all else the chance for a fun ride with mates, both old and new”. 
There will also be at least four special timed stages, with the winner accumulating the lowest combined time from these sections. However, in order to lend a bit more intrigue to proceedings the exact route will remain a secret until nearer to the event.
Kat Brown from Highland Perthshire Cycling said it was “very exciting to have our own enduro in Highland Perthshire. We love to get out on our bikes as much as possible and the route we have chosen takes in the great trails we ride all the time. It made even more sense to link them all up into one big ride and invite like-minded riders looking for an achievable challenge to have as much fun as we do. Sign up now for The Highland Perthshire Enduro to experience the fantastic riding to be had in Highland Perthshire.”
As well as private sector support from Alpine Bikes, this year’s Festival has been possible thanks to funding from EventScotland which will help not just with the Enduro, but also guided rides, a Film Night and the marketing and promotion of the event. Its importance to the local economy has also been recognised by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust and Perth and Kinross Council as well as the local DMO (Destination Management Organisation) and 
Explore Scotland all of whom have offered financial or in-kind support.
Paul Bush OBE (right), Chief Operating Officer for EventScotland described the Enduro as “an exciting addition to this year’s Highland Perthshire Cycling Festival, creating a real challenge for those looking to tackle the uphills and downhills on the 49km route. The programme offers something for everyone and it is great to see the strong family element in the festival once again. Scotland is the perfect stage for events, and riders in the festival’s closing event, The BIG Day, will be treated to some of the most spectacular views the country has to offer.”
Other new festival events are, guided road and mountain bike rides and a Film Night where amateur cyclists and film makers are being asked to submit a homemade cycling film which will be shown in the newly refurbished Birks Cinema in Aberfeldy, this Film Night will also show a professional feature cycling film and prizes will be given for the amateur film with the most votes. The week also features family fun days, kids events, local rides and the well renowned BIG Day plus lost more! The week all culminates in the legendary Etape Caledonia Sportive on Sunday 12th May.
Entries are now open via No Fuss Events and cost £40. Riders must be 16 or over to take part.