The inaugural edition of Epic Cymru, a five-day Mountain Bike stage race devised by Cilycwm endurance racer Matthew Page, will be held across south Wales from August 15 to 19.

The event, the first of its kind in the UK, will welcome entrants from all corners of the globe.

The race offers a unique format, mixing popular trail centres including Afan Forest Park, Bike Park Wales and Margam Park with a mix of purpose built trail centre and natural riding areas within the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The event is aimed at enthusiast riders primarily, but is gaining popularity with professional and semi-professional riders around the globe, with countries represented including Japan, China, South Africa, USA, Poland, Spain, France, Belgium, Switzerland, The Netherlands and Germany.

Pro riders already signed up include Mark Weir (USA), Jason Moeschler (USA) and Rowan Sorrell (WAL).

Page, a global name in endurance racing before his retirement and owner of A Cycling, said: “The response to the inaugural Epic Cymru race has been nothing short of remarkable.

“The first phase of entries were snapped up in under two hours, with most of phase two’s places also selling quickly, but it’s how far and fast word has spread around the world about this brand new event.

“Not only is it a great thing for the UK’s Mountain Bike scene, which already has a formidable reputation on the world circuit, but it’s also a wonderful thing for South Wales which will benefit as the race draws hundreds of competitors – and potentially thousands of spectators – to our corner of the globe, with daily routes covering up to 70km.”

“The event kicks off at Margam Park on August 15 before finishing back there five days later.

“Epic Cymru can’t be pigeonholed to one style of riding as it is aimed at the whole spectrum of riders, from XC to enduro; offering as much for the weekend warrior as the hardcore racer.

“The stages, which in total cover over 300 kilometres, include some of the best and most famous riding spots in South Wales.

“The race format will include timed sections and linking sections.

“Over the five days, riders will compete over 18 timed sections with separate cross country and downhill sections.

“Stage distances will be manageable but still challenging 45-75 kilometres with an emphasis on providing fun, technical riding throughout.

“Racing will of course be optional, many riders will choose to sit up and enjoy the amazing views on offer and enjoy the riding.

“Overseas entries are by far the most humbling for me as a race organiser.

“I'm really excited about the event and the chance to showcase the very best riding to people from around the world”

Full details are available at epiccymru.com