Riders on a charge last year

The fast approaching (if you call 33 days soon) Bristol Bikefest is shaping up to be another cracking event. The two day 'fest takes place at Ashton Court in Bristol on the 10/11 June, with Saturday the 12 hour Team Endurance day and Sunday reserved for the unofficial 12 hour UK and European Solo Championships, all sponsored by Ritchey.

The organisers have announced they're working with UK24, the recently launched club for riders addicted to long distance events. The club aims to help develop the long-distance race scene across the UK, principally by working with race organisers such as those behind the Bikefest.

So what does this mean for you? If you're racing on the Sunday (we are) then you can get a discount when entering the race and joining the club at the same time, for just £32 - a £10 saving. Interested? Head over to www.bristolbikefest.com and download and complete both entry forms and send to the required address. Alternatively, if you're already a member of UK24 scribble your membership number at the top of the Bikefest entry form and you'll get £5 of the price.

UK24 founder Rob Lee said: 'I'm so excited that the team from Ritchey 12 hour Endurance Event are backing us. They have such a great event with a history of supporting riders of all levels whilst simultaneously pushing the boundaries - who else would have been brave enough to give the UK riders a National 12 hour Championship when the powers that be seem so reluctant to commit to this rapidly growing branch of the sport?'

Other news

Saturday's 12 hour Team Endurance event has been tweaked to allow mixed teams. To enter this category your team must have at least one female rider, with up to four riders allowed in total. The entry forms haven't been adjusted for this new category though, so just scribble 'MIXED' in the green category box.

Pedro's will be on hand to keep your bike spick and span, though for the last two years the bikes have just needed a dust down. There'll be a useful self service pit area too, with enough basic tools to get your bike up and running should you have any mechanicals. High5 will be there again with their vast range of products to keep legs turning and minds sharp.

Visit www.bristolbikefest.com and www.UK24solo.com for more details.