Northern Territory Major Events Stage 4 of the Ingkerreke Commercial Mountain Bike Enduro began in the remote community of Santa Teresa where riders were cheered off by the friendly locals to attack an 88km point to point outback course.

The five day, seven stage Ingkerreke Commercial Mountain Bike Enduro is set to heat up the mountain bike trails of Alice Springs and the MacDonnell Ranges in the Northern Territory next week, Monday 13 to Friday 17 May, 2013. Now in its’ sixth year, the distinguished off-road stage race will see 200-plus riders take to the single tracks, dusty trails and endless blue skies on offer at one of Australia’s mountain bike hot spots.

Over the years, the Ingkerreke Commercial Mountain Bike Enduro has attracted everyone from top tier riders to those simply out for an adventure experience in the breathtaking landscapes of the Red Centre. Rapid Ascent caught up with three such riders – 2011 and 2012 defending champion Andy Blair; notable ‘roadie’ Wade Wallace of Cycling Tips; and Target-Trek rider Jenni King, to find out what has attracted them to ride the Red Centre, and the secrets behind their mountain bike passions.

”I’d heard rumors the trails were really good here; but this quantity, and this type of quality, wow no way! Amazing bright red and bright orange colours; it’s so varied. I honestly had no appreciation for just how visually cool it was going to be riding out here.” - Chris Southwood INGKERREKE COMMERCIAL MTB ENDURO - ALICE SPRINGS 13-18 MAY 2013. CHECK IT OUT!

Paul Van der Ploeg and Jenni King make it three from three at the Bike Buller MTB Festival, presented by GIANT on the final stage three, the Corn Hill Cranker 25km XC.

Paul Van der Ploeg continued his dominance on the renowned downhill single tracks today at Stage 2 of the Bike Buller MTB Festival, presented by Giant, and goes into tomorrow’s final stage as race leader.