MTBA National downhill series set for Awaba

There'll be plenty of pressure on riders for the first round of the 2017 Downhill National Series which begins at Awaba Mountain Bike Park near Lake Macquarie, NSW this weekend.

It's the first time since 2012 a round of the series has been held at the venue, and race organisers have something special in store for riders.

"The Monkey downhill trail at Awaba Mountain Bike Park is one of the most challenging in the country, which is one of the reasons HMBA riders fare so well at national and international level," said Hunter Mountain Bike Association President Mark Walsh.

"Our downhill trail has seen some major upgrades, maintaining its technical nature and also making it safer for riders of all levels."
 
"There are plenty of great spots for spectators and we expect the racing to be off the chain."

The track is home to 2016 National Series elite men's champion Graeme Mudd (NSW), and the Novocastrian can't wait to rip into the new season after dipping his toes into his first season of full-time world cup racing.

"It was very frustrating living the gypsy lifestyle in a van race to race, already being two steps behind the competition before practice even started but I think it was the best way to find out what works and what doesn't. It keeps you grounded and helps you appreciate the support you do get," Mudd admitted.

"My main thing to work on this year is my first split time and finding a good warm up plan so that I am getting in the start gate hot and ready to go."

However already the reigning title holder has had a bright start to 2017.

"There's a 50/50 chance that I will be on my new set up at Awaba this weekend so I am not yet able to let the cat out of the bag."

"It's going to be a huge opportunity and means a lot to my career in downhill. I picked up a lot in last year so it's time to work with my new team and start putting some numbers on the board."

Mudd will face the likes of  the Crimmins brothers Thomas and Andrew,  former world cup winner Chris Kovarik (QLD) and the new breed of the junior men riders in Remy Morton (QLD) and Jackson Frew (ACT) who have moved up a category.

"2017 marks my first year in Elite, which is very daunting," said Frew.

"At the same time it is also very exciting to be out racing alongside some of my idols! It’s definitely going to be a challenge but I’m very excited for the season to get going," said Frew who was last years junior men national series winner.

In the women 2016 National Series winner Tegan Molloy is out to shake off what was a injury riddled year with two broken collarbones sustained only six months apart.

"Both injuries meant that I missed out on a lot of racing, however gave me time to work on coming back stronger. During that time I learnt to turn the negatives into positives and tried to turn my energy towards other things," Molloy said.

"My preparation for this round is on target for this early on in the season. I am going into this race with no expectations; obviously though I would like to do well and get the 'monkey off my back' so to speak."

Her biggest rivals in the elite women on Sunday will be Danielle Beecroft (NSW) and Kellie Weinert (NSW).

Mudd also gave up some tips for those riding "Monkey" for the first time.

"Hang on! It's a rough ride from top to bottom."

"Make sure you spend time dialling in the crucial technical sections then it's all up to you to keep your cool and let go of those brakes."