“Dr”Steve Peat has somehow found time to plan what is sure to be a mouth-watering 4th annual Wharncliffe Weekender, despite his hectic racing schedule and his new found profession, delivering babies! Little did Sheffield University know last year that the honorary doctorate awarded in 2008 was to pre-empt the delivery of son number 2. All this when the UCI Downhill World Cup is now in full swing with Steve having a blistering start and leading the points series with 2 wins and a podium in the 3 rounds so far. His win in Andorra has now established the Sheffield born rider as the most successful of all time with 17 World Cup wins. He’s somehow finding time for the return of the ever popular event.
The annual cross country mountain bike meeting, held in Sheffield is, again, receiving global interest and last year saw riders from across the UK & Ireland as well as further afield from the Canary Islands and even New Zealand!
The charity event, which raises money for the Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity has been extremely successful over the past 3 years. The amount raised to date is ?28,500 with last year’s funds being specifically donated to the Teenage Cancer Unit at the hospital.
A visit by the Wharncliffe Weekender events team to the Teenage unit has strengthened their resolve to continue what is now becoming one of the most enjoyable MTB events in the calendar.
Steve Peat said “We’re stoked with the amount of money we’ve raised so far and can’t believe the distance some of the riders travel to take part. We all say this event is easy to organize because we have so much fun. We’re tweaking the plans for this year with the emphasis being solely on riding and old school MTB fun. We’ve even built a dual slalom fun track in the event field for people to play on. It’s gonna be awesome so come along and help us raise loads of money!”
The event comprises of 2 categories. Firstly a fun race for children or the less discerning riders, almost all of whom will be in fancy dress and will this year incorporate a team event. Secondly, a senior event which is for the more serious rider. In addition to the actual riding, there will be camping, food all-day and many other fund-raising stalls and activities. In the evening, things will slow down with old school “chill & chat”.
There are still plenty of places available for interested riders and people who may just wish to spectate or enjoy the other activities are gratefully welcome. The dates for the event are 4th & 5th July.
You will be able to download entry and sponsorship forms from the following website and get all the latest info on the race running up to the event.
Directions
The race is situated in Wharncliffe forest, Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
From the North Come off the MI at Junction 36 turn right towards Sheffield, At the next roundabout (McDonalds on the right) take the A616 towards Manchester. Follow for approx 1 mile once you crest the top of the hill there is a left turn signed Wortley, Huddersfield, Penistone. Turn left then after 50 Yards take the first right on to Woodhead Road. Follow for approx 3 miles. You will pass Rainbow hills Dog Kennels on your left, take the next right on to a dirt track. Follow signs for event parking and camping.
From the south Exit the M1 Motorway at junction 35a follow A616 straight over first roundabout then straight over second roundabout (McDonalds on the right). Then follow above signs.
Steve Peat’s Wharncliffe Weekender 2009
