This is where it all happens, where there is always something to see and do. In fact there is so much going on it’s difficult to keep up with the full programme of events.
We’ve got 2 very full days of competition, reaching a climax on Sunday with the traditional Fort William closing event, the Downhill.
The focal point for the events, the atmosphere and side events will be the World Cup Village, which will occupy most of the Nevis Range car park and the finish arena.
As well as the Finish arena for all events, there is the Tech area, and the Expo area with Trade stands offering all the latest mountain bike goodies, demonstrations, competitions, food and drink, support competitions and some unusual entertainment. There is also the World Cup Bike Test area with the latest bikes for testing or drooling over.
DJ's and our commentators Chris Furber and Dan Jarvis will keep everyone up to date and entertained.
The Village. A great place to spot stars and soak up the whole World Cup atmosphere.
Finish Arena
The place where all of the DH and 4X World Cup winners are decided. The DH and 4X share the same finish arena, with good views of the exciting final pitch of the Downhill and most of the 4-X.
In the DH the Hot Seat is where the current leader sits – until he or she is ejected by a faster rider. In 4-X it’s first across the line takes all. The all new XC Sprint will also use the same finish line as the DH and 4X.
Tech Area
The mountain bike equivalent of Formula One pits with some pretty impressive trailers and workshops. Here is where you will find all the stars getting ready or chilling out waiting for the action to start. Their mechanics and support teams will be working flat out to keep all the bikes in race condition. It’s also your chance to see the latest kit and some components that are still in development, not yet available in your local bike shop.
Bike Test Area
This is the toy shop to end all toy shops. The cream of this year’s bikes from leading manufacturer’s prepped and ready for you to test on part of the Forestry Commission World Championships course. Details of the test and on-line registration to follow.
Expo Area
This is where you’ll find lots of bike goodies for sale, partners and sponsors stands as well as World Cup merchandise for sale.
Food and Drink
It’s thirsty, hungry work watching ultimate mountain bike action, especially if you are walking the courses. If you are out on the courses, remember to stock up with some water and snacks beforehand.
Gondola Top Station – hot meals and snacks plus bar with magnificent views over Lochaber and perfect for catching the new DH start. Top up before walking the length of the Downhill course back to the World Cup Village.
Bottom Station Café – light meals, snacks and drinks.
World Cup Village
Food and Drink Tent – Several different choices of food including snacks and sandwiches, hot takeaway food.
4X Race Day – a snack van will be located half-way up the course
DH Race Day – a snack van will be located at the Wall Ride
Entertainment
We will be hosting some surreal and noisy entertainment during the week - be prepared to be surprised!
Displays and Demos
The Podium
All of the award ceremonies will take place on the Podium in the Finish Arena. Look out for special announcements and competitions.
Nevis Range Gondola
The 6 person Gondola makes Nevis Range the ideal Downhill venue, easily and rapidly transporting riders 525m up on to Aonach Mor. The chances of getting into a Gondola with a top star such as Steve Peat, is high and if you miss a rider you could still end up in one of the special gondolas featuring all of the Fort William winners. Please be aware that the seats may be a bit muddy during the World Cup weekend.
Make sure you include Gondola access in your ticket as there will only be limited availability to spectators, especially on the Sunday. Tickets with Gondola Access will allow multiple trips on all days except Sunday (subject to availability).
Most of the DH course is directly below the gondola, so you get a bird’s eye view as you travel up and down the gondola.
Dogs are allowed in the gondola (on the floor) but must be kept on a lead at all times. Sheep graze on the upper section of the mountain.
Big Screen
Catch all the action from the live TV coverage on the Big Screen. Between events there will be a constant flow of extreme sports action. The big screen will be situated next to the finish arena.
Grandstands
Also situated in the finish arena will be the popular Grandstand with over 750 seats. More than 500 seats are available on a first-come basis and are free to use. Seats cannot be reserved. A section of the grandstand is for VIP access only.
Booking Space in the World Cup Village
The World Cup Village features two areas where companies can have a presence – the Tech area and Expo area.
The Tech area is for companies providing team and rider support.
The Expo area is for companies who want to make an impact in UK mountainbiking or are looking for a great selling opportunity to thousands of committed mountain bikers.
If you are interested in exhibiting in the World Cup Village, booking forms are available to download or Rare Management on 0131 555 3820.
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