By Allan Shephard

Like most mountain bikers, I usually ride for fun. On the trails, I get to ride, laugh and enjoy the great outdoors with my friends, while also getting a great physical workout. And the Redlands has one of the best mountain biking destinations in south-east Queensland, the Bayview Conservation Area.

Bayview’s trails provide hours of fun! There are steep challenging trails, sketchy trails, bermed trails and flowing trails. As a conservation area, the Bayview trails weave through eucalypt forests, casuarina groves, grass trees and more spectacular bushland.

While I love a leisurely day on the trails, I also love a challenge, which brings me to the Bayview Blast. Every year in June, the Redlands plays host to the Bayview Blast mountain bike race. From kids events, fancy dress and team challenges, to 50km and 100km marathon races, there’s something for everyone during two well-organised days.

2016 celebrates the third year of the Blast, and its second year as part of the national cross country marathon series, which means weekend warriors like my friends and I get to share the trails with Australia’s elite riders.

I’m looking forward to this year’s Blast and will be competing with a friend in the 50km Sunday half-marathon – that’s one 25km lap each. Hats off to the elites and adventurers who tackle the whole 100km, which is a tough day on the bike. The half marathon relay will provide just the right amount of fun and challenge for me this year.  Can’t wait to blast it on 25-26 June!

Until then, here are some highlights from last year’s event.