Our mountain bike coordinator, David Steele, competes in endurance events both in the UK and abroad. We asked him about his riding, and about what he’s looking forward to this year.

How was 2008 for you? The TransWales event in August was the most memorable – back to back epic rides for a whole week – every day was a tough ride. Also riding in the sunshine in the Gran Canaria marathon and the Roc d’Azur races (see photo above) – these stood out because of the appalling weather we had in the UK last year. I also enjoyed the Maxx Exposure overnight ride on the South Downs Way from Eastbourne to Petersfield.

What team events did you do? I did several, they ranged from the brilliant course and weather at Plymouth for the Bonty Twentyfour12 to the dissappointing course and weather at Mountain Mayhem. But the team race performance that stands out was the London Phoenix team for the Torq in your Sleep 12 hour race in September – despite several mechanicals the excellent teamwork and motivation ensured a fantastic performance.

What are you looking forward to this year? We’ve just started the Gorrick spring series, and I’m looking forward to the Merida mtb marathons, particularly the new course at Crickhowell. I’ve already entered for the Roc d’Azur in France in October, and I’m thinking of doing the Etna marathon in May and the Isle of Man end to end in September.

For team events, I’ll probably do the Bonty Twentyfour12 as it’s in Plymouth again; otherwise I’m like to do some team events abroad.

How about other cycling disciplines? I’ve just raced a few of the London League cyclocross races, and one in the North-West series too. As for road, I’m going to do the Tour of Flanders sportif again this year and I might do others if I find one somewhere interesting.

What’s your tip for enjoying mountainbiking in the rain? Goretex shorts and Bonty MudX tyres.