The Epic Cymru made a dazzling (yet drizzly) debut last year and stormed onto the scene as the UK’s only mountain bike stage race. It’s back again in 2016 and entries go on sale on Sunday 17 January.

The race takes in some of Wales’ most epic riding over the course of five days with the winner decided over a series of special stages that test all aspects of your riding ability.

This year the Epic will once again visit Bike Park WalesAfan and Margam Park, however the new venue of Rheola has also been added this year. Rheola is traditionally associated with downhill and houses a track used in the British Downhill Series in 2010.

An entry to the race will cost you £495 (£60 more than last year) if you book it before March and £575 from March 1 onwards. This may seem steep but alongside your entry this also pays for 4 nights camping, all your meals during the event, a jersey and transport for you and your kit when it is needed. You can also pay for optional extras such as having your bike washed or nicer accommodation.

The race runs from July 30 to August 3 and entries will go live at 7am on Sunday 17 January here.