Mike Jardine, co-organiser of the 2008 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup scheduled to descend on Fort William between 6th-8th June, expects this year's spectacle to attract a record number of competitors.
 
"Everything is shaping up really well," said Jardine this week.
 
"We anticipate more riders, probably around 500 from a total of 35 countries," said Jardine.
 
He added: "I expect many riders, in particularly the cross-country event, as competitors aim for Olympic selection ahead of Beijing (in August)."
 
Both the Chinese and Russians are expected to send large teams to Fort William as they make their final preparations for the Olympic event.
 
This will be the 6th consecutive year of the UCI World Cup being staged in Fort William. 
 
As mountain-biking continues to enjoy a popular following across the country, EventScotland are among the major organisations that have supported the growth of the flagship event.
 
Last year, Scotland hosted its inaugural UCI Mountain Bike World Championships during which rising star and Scottish downhiller, Ruaridh Cunningham pedalled off with gold in the junior category.
 
The Scot is expected to be among the strong contingent of Scottish and British riders vying for World Cup success in just over six weeks time.