Record field enters Anaconda Odyssey MTB Marathon

The Anaconda Odyssey Mountain Bike Marathon, formerly called the Otway Odyssey, has sold out with a record field of 1,750 riders. The race consists of three events, all beginning on February 21.

The premier Anaconda Odyssey event will see 1,000 riders tackle 100km of narrow and twisting trails between Apollo Bay and Forrest for a tough day in the saddle. Second to that, 500 riders will take on a more direct 50km "Anaconda Shorty" route between the two townships while the 15km "Anaconda Pioneer" race will give kids the opportunity to get into the action with a fun course around Forrest itself.

The men's field will see some tough competition between riders from all over the country with last years' winner Chris Jongewaard from South Australia returning to defend his title against challengers like 2007 winner Murray Spink from Victoria, Beijing Mountain Bike Olympian Dan McConnell, reigning Solo World 24-hour Champion James Williamson and Tour De France rider Phil Anderson.

The women's field is just as loaded with last year's champion Jennifer Hopkinson-Smith, up against Australian National Series leader Katherine O'Shea, 2007 Australian Champion Tory Thomas and Commonwealth Games representative Emma Colson.

For more information, visit www.anacondaodyssey.com.