A RECORD number of entries have been received for this year’s End to End Mountain Bike Challenge.
The challenge, organised by the Manx Mountain Bike Club, has attracted 1,400 entries, which is an increase of 300 from the previous year.
900 of the entries are from outside of the Isle of Man, with applications from as far afield as Israel, Scandinavia and Australia.
The surge in entries has been accredited to the fact that the 2009 event was shown on Sky TV.
Steve Honeybone, chairman of the End 2 End committee said: "It has become a big event on Europe’s mountain biking calendar.
"Without doubt the coverage on Sky TV last year has made a difference. Once it was broadcast we saw a really big increase in the number of people asking for application forms."
The event became oversubscribed by February this year and there are 200 riders currently on the waiting list.
Mr Honeybone continued: "As in any event on this scale, there are always quite a few who cannot start for various reasons. We’re hoping that a lot of the 200 will get the opportunity to take part, but they will have to just hold tight and wait for their chance."
The 46 mile route which starts at the Point of Ayre and finishes at The Sound, is now rated as one of the best competitions in Europe.
Former Olympian Nick Craig starts as hot favourite to win the event, after winning consecutively for the last two years. He is expected to cross the finishing line in just under three hours.
Slower riders could take up to seven hours to complete the course.
TT Star Guy Martin will also be making a celebrity appearance in the race this year.
Race organisers have issued a polite warning to competitors that they must not get involved in any serious practising on the route.
Mr Honeybone explained: "We know it’s tempting - particularly for local riders - to go out at the weekend and ride the course, but we have a very good relationship with the land owners and we don’t want it to be spoiled by someone leaving a gate open and causing problems for the farmers.
"The route will be very clearly marked on the day, so no one needs to go out practising and anyone seen practising on private land will be excluded."
The event is sponsored by Sleepwell Hotels and supported by Isle of Man Tourism.
Political Member for Tourism, Geoff Corkish MHK said: "The organisers have done a magnificent job in creating a really well run event and clearly the competitors are extremely keen.
"This is a major success story and Isle of Man Tourism is pleased to support it."
The End 2 End Mountain Bike Challenge takes place on September 12.
For more information visit: www.manx2e.org.
