The 2010 Mountain Bike Challenge begins at 6am from the Lyndoch Hill Retreat and rises some 500m over a winding 32km in the 80km first stage to Swan Reach.

Simply put, it's a challenge for the challengers and one Mal is looking forward to.

"It is a big climb," he said after demolishing one of Keith Lockhart's famous barbecue breakfasts yesterday ((fri 5.3)).

"Maybe the hardest day of the tour. That and the big day out on the flat (Day 10 130kms Balranald to Hay). But I'm looking forward to it. Should be fun."

Mal, 47, is a plaseterer with Tamworth Plaster Works. Has worked there since age 16.

"30 years," he adds with a grin.

He's been riding, seriously, for about 15 years.

"Hurt my knee playing indoor cricket and took up riding to strengthen the knee. Got hooked."

That was on road bikes, riding criteriums and road races with and for the Tamworth Cycle Club.

"I did my first mountain bike ride three years ago," he said.

"Only a small one with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter charity ride.

"Loved that. It was great fun. I always wanted to do a long ride and as soon as I heard about this one I was in."

He said the fact he's helping raise for a good cause makes it even better. He also appreciates the support from his major sponsors, Steve Hoy (Peel Irrigation), John Carey (Carey's Freight Lines) and John Sleightholme (Tamworth Firearms).

He was also impressed by the arrival of WRHS chairman Cliff Marsh and general manager Richard Jones at Lyndoch on Thursday to wish the riders a fond farewell at the beginning of the ride dinner.

They, along with CTC Consulting's Paul Gallimore, wished the riders a safe journey.

"Why are we here?" Cliff Marsh enquired.

"Out of respect for the riders who are taking on this big challenge. If they are going to risk their bodies we thought the least we could do was to come here and wish them all the best."

He said the 2010 Mountain Bike Challenge is "something unique for us" to celebrate the 10 years of the WRHS being based in Tamworth. He's been chairman for more than 20 years and a part of the WRHS since the mid '70s.

He is hoping the WRHS will soon have a twin engine aircraft based in Tamworth as well "24/7"

"Ride well, ride safe," he told the 31 riders and support crew.

* Apologies to Coolah's Steve Billett, whose name appeared as Ellett in yesterday's article, some technical difficulties led to the mix up.