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 6 days of competition and every day the numbers, intensity and action will build, 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 Championships 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 Team Zone, 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. You can also try out some test bikes on the Forestry Commission skills trail.
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 Championships atmosphere.
Finish Arena
The place where all of the XC, DH and 4X World Champions 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.
This year the XC gets its own start/finish arena and more of the XC course will be easily seen from the Village. Even after 2 hours of gruelling action there’s a chance that there will still be a sprint for the line.
Look out for the new spectator tunnel under the DH/4X finish straight and the new DH access path to the left of the Finish line looking up hill.
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.
Team Zone
The World Championships are all about competing for your country and the Team Zone is where you’ll find all of the participating countries. The feel will be similar to the Tech Area but it will be even more international.
Expo Area
This is where you’ll find lots of bike goodies for sale, partners and sponsors stands as well as World Championships 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 Championships Village.
Bottom Station Café – light meals, snacks and drinks.
World Championships Village
Food and Drink Tent – Several different choices of food including snacks and sandwiches, hot takeaway food.
XC Race Day – a snack van will be located at the Blue Crane climb
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!
Details to follow.
Displays and Demos
Details to follow.
The Podium
There are 19 World Champions to be decided at Fort William. 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 – but 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 2 Grandstands with over 1,500 seats. More than 1,200 seats are available on a first-come basis and are free to use. Seats can not be reserved. A section of one of the grandstands is for VIP access only.
Worlds FM Radio
We will be transmitting live commentary over the entire event area. Bring a small portable radio with you to keep up to date with the results and news as it happens, even if you are at the most remote section of the courses.
Transmission frequency to be confirmed. Because of the nature of the terrain and the amount of tree cover on the XC course, there may be locations where coverage is restricted.
Booking Space in the World Championships Village
The World Championships 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 Championships Village, click to download a booking form or Rare Management on 0131 557 3012.
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