Britain elated about hosting two rounds of UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 2010

Just after securing the UCI BMX World Championships in 2012, British Cycling received the news last week that two rounds of the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup will be held in Britain. Dalby Forest in North Yorkshire will hold the opening round of the cross country World Cup on April 24-25, and Fort William in Scotland will, once again, hold a downhill and four cross round on June 5-6

"Securing two rounds of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 2010 is another great development for cycle sport in the UK," said Ian Drake, CEO at British Cycling. "The UK is the only country to hold two separate rounds of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 2010 covering the three disciplines of cross country, downhill and four cross, sending a strong message to the mountain bike community that we are serious about mountain biking. Both events will ... prompt further investment into world-class facilities, helping inspire new generations of riders."

Both rounds are expected to draw the sport's top competitors. Dalby Forest should attract thousands of spectators, too, given its convenient location, strong transport links and top-notch visitor facility. Racers will compete on a purpose-built, technical course.

British Cycling, Yorkshire Forward and UK Sport combined efforts to win the Dalby Forest World Cup bid.

"Bringing high profile events like the World Mountain Bike World Cup is a fantastic way for us to showcase our region to the world and attract new investment," said Tom Riordan, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Forward. "The visitor economy contributes over £6 billion to Yorkshire and Humber's economy every year, so it is vital that we use our natural assets - like the Dalby Forest - to grow this important industry and our regional economy."

Fort William's success to secure its ninth consecutive UCI World Cup competition testified to the consistency of Scottish organisers in delivering high quality world class events.