Take the dirt on

A WOMEN’S only mountain bike event is back and better than ever.

The Bendigo Mountain Bike’s women’s three-hour challenge is the perfect event for experienced riders and those new to the sport.

Treasurer of the club and women’s social coordinator Jo Lythgo said this year’s event is all about having fun.

“We’ve always marketed the event as for fun, but you can race as well,” she said.

“It’s all about introducing women into mountain biking in an environment that’s low pressure, when you’re at an event with guys it’s a lot of pressure and that freaks a lot of people out.”

The three-hour challenge means participants complete as many laps of the Spring Gully trail as they can, with a more advanced course, a basic course and a just for fun course.

“This year there’s three courses because we wanted to reach more women,” Ms Lythgo said.

With a relaxed approach to the event, Ms Lythgo said it encourages women who may not be the most confident riders have a go at the thrilling sport.

“It’s the challenge, it’s the freedom, it’s no cars anywhere, it’s being able to achieve something like a feature on a track that perhaps you’ve struggled with,” she said.

“I find mountain biking makes you feel a little bit stronger but then it can scare you as well, it gives you a bit of an adrenaline rush.”

Participants are encouraged to dress up, and prizes and podiums are on offer thanks to the Bendigo Club and Quarry Hill Café.

Registration closes on Wednesday, 12 May and can be found online at bit.ly/2RjJ8bQ.