THE Alpinestars MTB Trail Attack comes to Hamsterley Forest on July 22. I have been speaking to Luke Hammil, Alpinestars Brand Manager, ZyroFisher about the event.

How does Alpinestars MTB Trail Attack differ from regular mountain bike races?

MTB Trail Attack presents a new format that is based loosely on motorsports events where riders get more time on the bike, more time on the trail, they are not penalised for their mistakes and ultimately the fastest riders on the day win. The format is simple, 200 riders ride for four hours to set their fastest times before the field is cut in half, the fastest half of the field progressing to the next heat. After a further 90 minutes the top 32 riders are given one last run down the trail for the chance to be crowned the Alpinestars Trail Attack Champion.

Why did you choose Hamsterley Forest for the event?

Hamsterley Forest is one of the north’s premier trail centres and the Transmission, Accelerator and Nitrous trails present a fair test of riding skills for a range of riders from novice to expert. They are also technical enough to challenge the very best riders vying to set rapid times.

This is the second year of the event, how did the first one go and will it continue into the future?

Last year’s event was attended by close to 200 riders and we were fortunate to experience perfect conditions. The trails were dry and dusty which meant some really fast times were recorded and the competition was fierce! If we can replicate that again this year, it will definitely be on the cards to return in the future.

What are the criteria for anyone wanting to take part?

We’ve relaxed the requirement for riders to wear full face helmets this year, so anyone who is comfortable riding red (difficult) trails, has a trail bike - full suspension advised but not required - and a helmet is welcome to come and ride. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first race or your 100th , we guarantee you’ll have an absolute blast.

Are falls and spills all part of the event?

After a practice run you are going to be riding at your limit as you try and beat your times, your mate’s times and other rider’s times alike. Therefore, while the trail isn’t super steep, it is technical so it is likely there will be one or two off the bike incidents!

What is it about this event that appeals to Alpinestars as a company?

Alpinestars are a brand that thrive on adrenaline and the experiences racing brings. MTB Trail Attack offers a new and exciting format that rewards the fastest riders and creates a thrilling final showdown whilst ensuring everyone who enters gets to spend a lot of time on the trails, against the clock.

It sounds really exciting, so what you would say to people who might be tempted to come along and watch?

Come along! If you can’t ride the event there a plenty of vantage points out on the course, just stay on the outside of the course tape! Riders times will be displayed on big screens down at the finish and food and drink will be available throughout the day. We will also be running competitions to win some Alpinestars products and these will be open to spectators and riders alike. See you there!