Three exciting new initiatives launched at the Scottish Mountain Bike Conference 2024 – Think Global, Act Local

The initiatives are the UKs first ever cycling/mountain biking and outdoor activity business incubator project - First Tracks, a new Scottish Enduro Association, and the launch of the largest ever UK wide report on the current state and future needs of the mountain bike trail network across the country.

Ms Mairi Gougeon, said:

“I am delighted today to be able to deliver a keynote speech at the Scottish Mountain Bike Conference to show the Scottish Government’s continued support for mountain biking and those involved in the delivery of the Scottish Mountain Bike Strategy.

“It is fantastic to see the launch of these exciting initiatives to help support the continued growth of the industry and sport across the country. It is also great to see the UK Trails Report and it gives me immense pride that this type of initiative can be hosted in Scotland and we are working collaboratively across the four nations of the UK to drive forward change.”

The conference is the second largest of its kind globally and has a range of diverse speakers and delegates from across the world.

Graeme McLean, Head of Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, who organise the event said:

“We are once again blown away by the range and quality of delegates, speakers and event partners who are attending and supporting our event. It speaks volumes about the quality of the mountain biking in Scotland and of our global reputation for its sustainable development.

It is vital though that we continue to move forward to cement Scotland’s position on the global mountain bike world stage. These new initiatives seek to do that. To support new and emerging businesses, the collaboration between South of Scotland Enterprise, Edinburgh Napier University, and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland – First Tracks – is a first-of-its-kind business incubator programme.

A new Scottish Enduro Association being formed using the tried and tested model of volunteers being supported by a governing body, will energise the enduro discipline and event scene. Domestic and International events continue to be hugely important both economically and by increasing participation at all levels of the sport.

The launch of the UK Trails Report today, is the culmination of a year’s work by the project and is a landmark publication in UK mountain bike trails history. We are delighted to have the support of Ms Gougeon to help us launch these three exciting initiatives at the conference today.”

For more information on First Tracks

For more information on Scottish Enduro Association

To download the UK Trails: Trails – Its People, Place and Time Report