March is already here and April is hot on it's heels, and that means that the first round of the Merida Bikes MTB Marathon Series, the Exposure Lights Big Night Out Marathon is fast approaching.

Exposure Lights Big Night Out Marathon - 11 April

For years the night marathon has been the official opener to the series and 2009 will be no exception. A 50km course with around 1400m of climbing will create a fantastic challenge and still leave something in the tank for the Sunday morning Spring Marathon.

The guys from Exposure Lights will be on site showing off their latest lighting developments and offering advice on what to look out for when 'indulging' in the fascinating world of night riding. This year's special finishing present will be the new reflective BUFF which will be handed out to the riders alongside tea, coffee and cake when coming back over the finish line.

Merida Bikes MTB Spring Marathon - 12 April

Following the night activities will be the Merida Bikes MTB Spring Marathon. Three courses with some never before used sections will offer something for everybody - starting with a 25km course (600m of climbing), followed by the all new 50km course (1200m of climbing), going all the way to the 70km course with 1900m of climbing.

New location for the April Builth Wells

For 2009 we have moved across the river back to the original event location when we started 10 years ago with the first '100' event - the Royal Welsh Showground. With ample hard standing, tarmac access routes, a superb infrastructure and first class facilities the Royal Welsh Showground is the ideal location to host our 1st event in 2009. And the event is not much further from the shops, pubs, restaurants, hotel and B+Bs in Builth.

Find out more and enter online at www.mtb-marathon.co.uk