Cycle Epic registration open

Registration for one of Australia's most popular amateur mountain bike events, the Flight Centre Cycle Epic, is now open. The seventh edition of the mountain bike marathon will be held over the weekend of August 22-23, with a number of distance and category options. Past contenders include current national champion and Olympian Chris Jongewaard, winner of the 2008 event.

Held each year in the Lockyer Valley west of Brisbane, the Epic option travels a 100km course along the Bicentennial National Trail traversing the four valleys, following historic Ma Ma Creek and crossing Laidley and Edwards Gaps to finish at Old Hidden Vale.

Besides the main 100km Epic Classic, there are four other events including a short, off-road race for children. Event Director Peter Creagh, of Tailwind Promotions, said the popularity of the event in recent years shows no signs of slowing down. "We already received 100 entries on the very first day first day, and if previous years are any indicator, registration will fill even faster than last year's event," he said.

Flight Centre has partnered with Australian manufacturer Netti to supply the first 1,000 entrants in the 50km Pursuit and 100km Epic Classic events with a free Flight Centre Cycle Epic jersey. 1,500 entrants are expected.

This year's Cycle Epic events including the following:
August 22: The Merida Chaser 20km
August 22-23: The Peppers Mega Epic also adds in a a 50km enduro conducted on the Old Hidden Vale property
August 23: Flight Centre Cycle Epic 100km Classic marathon
August 23: The Merida Pursuit 50km
August 23: The Colour Chiefs Mini and Minor Epics, 7km and 12km (ideal for kids)

For more information, visit www.cycleepic.com.au.