Wanna race girls?

Downhill racing is, in my opinion the ultimate test of technical riding ability. Since its very inception it's pretty much been a very male thing. Sure, there's always been female classes just as there's classes for juveniles, veterans and pretty much everything in between.

If you're female then the thought of entering such a testosterone rich environment can be pretty daunting ... it can be daunting enough if you're male! Over the years I've coached and ridden with some very fast women but only a tiny amount have ever raced downhill. Hopefully a new race may give more women the incentive they need to give it a go.

Diva Descent is a female only downhill race which takes place at the start of May and it could just be the opportunity some of you have been waiting for. Here's what the organisers have to say.

THE UK’S FIRST ALL-GIRLS

DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE

Diva Descent, the UK’s first all-girls downhill mountain bike race is to be held at Kinnoull Hill, Perth, Scotland on the 7th-8th May 2011.

The purpose of the event is to introduce more female riders into downhill racing and to provide them with the opportunity to compete, under authentic race conditions, in an all-girl environment. Diva Descent was inspired by the success of other all-girl events in the UK, such as ‘Air Maiden.’

The weekend consists of a day of coaching on the Saturday; from key women in the UK race scene, followed by a day of racing on the Sunday. Diva Descent is aimed at any women interested in giving downhill racing a go, either for the first time or those just wanting to hone in on their skills.

Diva Descent is proud to have the support of Loeka clothing, Perth City Cycles and the Forestry Commission. GirlMTNbiker has recently come on board as publicity manager for the event and further sponsorship is soon to be announced. The event is being organised by Sarah Muir, a keen Mountain Biker from Scotland. And when asked about why she decided to set up Diva Descent said, “I’m passionate about mountain biking and the industry and believe this is an excellent opportunity to introduce women to downhill racing. It also provides a place for girls to show off their talents, develop their skills and learn from other women in the race scene. The support I have received so far from the mountain bike community, not only in Scotland, but internationally has been incredible.”

One of the aims of Diva Descent is to encourage a greater number of girls to enter into mountain bike events and to see more women on the Scottish and the UK race circuit! The price of the weekend is £40, which includes coaching on the Saturday and entry to the race on the Sunday.

For more information about the event and to secure your place visit www.divadesscent.com with updates and race reports available also at girlmtnbiker.com