McConnell arrives at Fort William for MTB World Cup
8 June 2008

A curious Euan McConnell visited Fort William for the cross-country and downhill World Cup on the weekend. It was an experience to see what fellow competitors in the two-wheeled world were up to - minus an engine.

After arriving late on Friday night, we toured the paddock area to see what fine machines were on display. We then ventured into the forest to watch the women's cross-country race and were slightly disappointed with the lack of action on the course. After a quick break, it was time for the men's race. We watched the start from the first corner as the boys were about to make the first big climb of the course. The 90 riders were all cycling into the corner and a bunch of them collided, leaving one of the riders with a completely bent wheel.

We walked around the mountain to find what else we could see of the men's race. It was better than the women's, but we were so busy trying to keep away from the midges that it was hard to watch the race.

On Sunday we got to see some real action. The downhill riders. We took the gondola up the mountain and made our way down the hill next to the track. Even the women looked fast up the top of the mountain, and we really impressed with the guys.

By the time we made it down the mountain, the top ten riders were coming down. Steve Peat was awesome and set the fastest time ahead of the riders before him. Unfortunately he was passed by Aussie World Champ Sam Hill, then fellow GB rider Atherton and then the winner, Greg Minnaar. Well done boys! I think I'll have to give downhill riding a go.