It's nearly that time of year when thousands of people will be burning the midnight oil, waiting for the release of the Mountain Mayhem entry forms. The three day event takes place between June 20-22nd at Eastnor Castle Deer Park, Herefordshire, UK.
At midnight on Friday, February 29th, the entry forms go live on the event website and the rush will be on to get those elusive places for the biggest 24 hour race in the world.
What's new for 2008?
There are a few changes to the categories. Gone is the pure elite/expert category, which is now being replaced with a mixed elite/expert category. These teams of four (three men and one woman) can now battle it out against other elite/expert teams in a bid for the handsome prize purse on offer.
Also new for this year is the open women's category. Teams of five women of any standard racing for some top prizes means you can rope in as many ringers as you like. Is Jenny Copnall busy that weekend?
The rest of categories remain unchanged with a cap of 135 places for those brave/lonely competitors who want to ride solo.
In the sponsorship stakes, Giant is taking over as main sponsor, supporting the event by heading up the dirt demo days, where you can try before you buy.
Plenty to do
If you're heading over to Mayhem on the Friday, why not take your glad rags and have a go at the Rock Shox sponsored 'Drag Racing'? Yep, it does what it says on the tin. A mad 200-yard knockout sprint complete with traffic light start and electronic timing plus a suitably tasteless Indianapolis-style trophy for the winner. And if you want to do it all dressed up like, feel free - special prizes will be awarded to the 'best lookers' on the night.
Another brand new, never seen before experience at Mountain Mayhem is the Mayhem Classic Sportive. Now on Sunday morning so after coming back off your lap, you can head for the hills on the road and join hundreds of others as they sample the delights of the Malvern's countryside on a 100km sportive.
There'll also be a Mini Mayhem for the young 'uns. Experienced coaches from the British Cycling Go Ride scheme will be on hand to take the youngsters through their paces, where they'll be able to test their new found skills against the clock.
If that doesn't take your fancy, how about a little bit of climbing? There'll be a climbing tower and rolling climbing wall on site for those keen to try out other muscles. If you're feeling really energetic there'll be some paint balling too! And for the not so energetic, check out Mayhem Village where you never know, you might pick up a bargain or two.
There's lots going on this year, so it's to head to www.mayhemworld.co.uk to check it all out and set your tent up waiting for those entry forms...