Individual Post

 Over 550 riders will arrive in Rostrevor the first weekend in October for the Red Bull ‘Foxhunt’ Mountain Bike Event.

The event, which is in its seventh year, will see the riders take to the summit of Slieve Martin in an attempt to outrun three cunning ‘foxes’ - some of the world’s fastest mountain bike riders. This year current world champion Loic Bruni, veteran ‘fox’ Gee Atherton and Irish rider and Red Bull athlete, Greg Callaghan will seek to outride and outpace the riders as they tackle the 3.5km of treacherous downhill trails.

Mark Cumming East Coast Adventure, Greg Callaghan 3rd overall in the Enduro World Series 2017 and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor Oksana McMahon launch the 2018 Foxhunt.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said, “I am very pleased to see the return of this mountain bike event to our district. We have some of Ireland’s most beautiful and scenic landscapes and this event showcases our spectacular mountain moorland and terrains.

“This exciting event is not only a highlight for local people, it attracts international visitors and gives them an opportunity to experience what the district has to offer. Epic events such as this help to showcase our diverse ‘outdoor playground’ and put us in pole position to be considered the outdoor capital of Ireland.”

The event will test the skills of both the riders and ‘foxes’ descend through open-mountain moorland, bone-shaking rock gardens and steep forest trails that are guaranteed to challenge even the most capable rider. Reaching speeds in excess of 60km/h, each rider will be battling to cross the line ahead of the three pursuing foxes.

This year’s event has received support from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland.

For more information on the ‘Foxhunt’ you can contact Newry Visitor Information Centre at 028 3031 3170