CTC & IMBA team for UK National Mountain Bike Conference

IMBA-UK is partnering with the CTC, the UK's national cyclists' organization, to host a conference on October 9 to support the British government's effort to get two million more people active by 2010. The organizations are teaming up to help develop a clear progression for riders of all backgrounds and abilities from the bike shop to the trail.

The conference programme has been specifically designed for trail builders, project managers, sports development officers, funders, landowners, AONB and National Park staff, and all those involved in managing or developing off-road cycling in the UK. It will address the increase in demand for off-road cycling and provide an opportunity to share lessons learned from those running successful facilities around the globe. The focus will also be on training, education, facility development and funding.

Speakers will include IMBA Executive Director Mike Van Abel, CTC Director Kevin Mayne, Forestry Commission Visitor Safety Officer John Ireland, Cascade Environmental Founder Mike Nelson, Natural England Policy Specialist Duncan Mackay, IMBA-UK Chairman Kalr Bartlett, Julie Cartner, Dafydd Davis MBE, Chris Ford, Ian Warby and Vince Bartlett.

"This is a great opportunity for mountain bikers to come together, share their enthusiasm and experience, and continue improving mountain biking opportunities and participation for the future," said Karl Bartlett, Chairman IMBA-UK.

The conference will be held at Cromwell Suite in Earls Court, during the trade day of Cycle 2008. For more information, visit www.ctc.org.uk/mtb.