Are you ready?

You'll no doubt have noticed the clocks changed last weekend, which only means one thing, more riding time, unless you have a penchant for night time riding. Whatever your riding preference, the opening round of the Merida Marathon series begins it's summer long fling on the 8/9 April, at Builth Wells.

The format for this weekend is a little different from the norm though. Saturday evening gets going with the Exposure Lights Big Night Out event, a 44km distance night ride (though it starts while still light) with a hefty amount of climbing. Legs nicely warmed up then for Sunday's Spring Marathon, a 65km course, or a 45km and 30km option for the less brave. Apparently the courses feature brand new singletrack, which is nice. We rode both these events last year and had a great time, read about it here.

Both events are nearing capacity, with about 800 split across both rides. The best way to guarantee your entry is to do it online but you should be able to enter on the day, if you're a last minute kind of person.

There's plenty to do on the Saturday if you're getting there early. CycleActive are running a skills session, Pedro's are leading a short ride in the afternoon as a gentle warm-up, plus expert tips as you ride. And the marquee tent will be packed with retailers showing of their wares, and USE will be giving away one of their funky Joystick lights.