Cycling legend to take part in Strathpeffer event
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ENDURANCE race organisers have just received the “ultimate Christmas cracker” after one of the cycling world’s biggest stars signed up for their Ross event.
Legendary road cyclist Mark Beaumont has confirmed he will race this year’s Strathpuffer 24.
The 35-year-old elite athlete, author and broadcaster will line up in the pairs category with Alex Glasgow – his ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ mechanic and a five-time Puffer competitor.
Whilst Beaumont is renowned for his record-breaking achievements on the tarmac, the 2019 Strathpuffer 24 will be his first ever MTB race and marks the start of a whole new grittier two-wheeled journey for the Scottish adventurer.
“I have lived on the ribbon of tar for many years, and now it is time to explore off-road,” he said.
“Alex and I hope to take on some of the world’s biggest endurance races in the coming years and we’re jumping in at the deep end with this one.
“I love living, training and riding in Scotland - even in the middle of winter - so why not try the iconic Strathpuffer 24 and find out what everyone has been talking about?”
The ‘Puffer has a history of attracting big names from the world of adventure and endurance sports with the likes of Guy Martin and Alastair Humphries having participated in the past.
The 14th edition of the legendary winter mountain bike endurance event will take place on the 19th/20th of January 2019 in Contin, near Strathpeffer. The annual event is a real test of endurance – with the added challenge that some 17 hours of the race take place in the dark.
Solo riders and teams of up to 10 people can take part.
Last year’s race was a massive success and attracted more than 1000 competitors – up around 200 on the number of entries just three years earlier.
Visit strathpuffer.co.uk for more details.
