As the title asks, the reason I ask is that I understand that there will be a 12 and a 24hr mtb event being held in Bramham Park at the beginnning of July. As it is only 3miles from where I live I might give it a go.

I know it will hurt but I have a long history in endurance and ultra distance events so I am used to suffering but what are the true challenges involved in taking part as a solo rider? The only other complicating matter will be that I would be riding it on a singlespeed!! and that most of my training would be on the road which is where I choose to race.

Any tips or advise (other than don't do it) will be greatly received.

Thanks

Ratty

Is that the one organized by the  Nutcracker group? If not busy on the Sunday i hope to come across and watch! I have done a couple. I feel as long as you are fit then the actual riding shouldn't be too bad. I agree with Mark, some practice of riding short circuits really helped me. I just gained confidence in knowing i could ride laps for up to 12 hours and maintain my speed. I would say that you need to ride about 10% slower than you want too! You really need to ride some off road on the bike you will ride on the day. Ideally you need a spare bike. Nutrition is a nightmare. The practice sessions of 12 hour circuit rides helped me with that. Sunday's challenge is a short circuit of under 6 miles, it is mainly all singletrack, so 6 hours of that may well feel like 24! And good support is vital. Some one who knows you well is best. Ideally two people, as they get tired! Jackie and Lorraine who helped came along and did support when i had my practice sessions which got them used to keeping me going! Be great to see you on Sunday and if you want a chat anytime just get in touch. If struggling to sleep you could read Debbie's Diary. I wrote about my time at Mayhem in 09 and last year. Good luck!

Just go for it! At Mayhem the solo riders are treated as stars, a great feeling i can tell you! And it's a great tale if anyone asks ' what did you at the weekend?' Loads do it for fun. I has a serious year and a fun year and enjoyed them both. I was lurking (hiding in the trees ) drinking beer before the end of lasts year's event when the 3rd lady came by (my place in 09) and i really wasn't bothered it wasn't me! It is their first year of 24 and if i wasn't doing Mayhem i would do it just so i could say i did! You could enter Newcastleton instead and become British and European champion. I am 2nd place on the podium at the mo in my category, so you can imagine how i will brag about that. 2nd solo woman over a certain age in Europe!