ORGANISERS of the End 2 End Mountain Bike Challenge have offered their "sincerest thanks" to the police, marshals and residents for helping to make the event a success.

The event, which attracted a record number of riders, took place on Sunday, September 12.

Steve Honeybone, End 2 End committee chairman, said: "With 1,400 competitors and several major roads to be traversed during the event we could not have done it without support.

"We hope that the success of the event – which attracted more than 900 overseas competitors and is very good for the Island – will compensate for any disruption that may have been caused."

Organisers and competitors were also grateful for the support of Green Mann Spring Water who provided more than 2,000 litres of bottled Manx water for riders at all checkpoints.

Around 120 marshals supported this year’s event and each will receive a £25 donation for their club or charity.

Ramsey Rugby Club provided almost 30 club members as marshals at various points in the north of the Island.

Steve explained: "The club will consequently receive close to £750 for their efforts which I know is very much appreciated by the club and could pay for a new kit for instance."

The same donation system will be in place at next year’s event but organisers have said that more help is needed.

Steve continued: "We coped with 120 marshals but we do need more. We are highly conscious of trying to avoid traffic hold-ups and congestion wherever possible and we probably need more marshals to do this more effectively next year."

Some changes will be made to next year’s event. Organisers are looking to find more parking areas so that vehicles are kept away from the route and extra toilets will be provided at the start.

Declaring the event a success Steve said: "Overall we are extremely pleased with the way the event took place. It’s a massive job to organise the transport of riders and their bikes to the start and then again to take them back after the finish - and that’s without taking into account the organisation needed along the route.

"But we are very pleased with the way it went. Certainly the competitors seemed to be very happy and they all want to come back again next year – and that’s what it’s really all about."

Geoff Corkish MHK, Political Member for Isle of Man Tourism, concluded:  "The End 2 End is a brilliant example of public sector, private sector and the sports community working together to achieve excellence - team Isle of Man at its finest." 

For more information about marshalling at next year’s event click here.