The popular event is back under predicted sunny skies and New England Mountain Bikers president Peter Hosking said the tracks are in perfect racing condition.

"It has dried out heaps so even with [Wednesday's] rain, it won't be a drama. It was actually getting a little bit dusty so it won't hurt to get a little bit of moisture,” he said. 

Race numbers dropped with the date change but the move allowed superstar Jason English to enter. 

"Jason English is heading up, he is the world champion in 24 hour races so it will be good to see him again,” Hosking said. 

"Numbers are probably a little lower than anticipated, that is what happens when you move an event but we are pushing hard and hopefully a few people have seen the weather has been kind. 

"It is looking good for a nice riding day in the mid teens, great weather for mountain bike racing.” 

There are still entrants from across the border and the region with Tamworth clubbers joining in. 

Holly Harris along with Harry and Emily Wooster won’t line up but there will be plenty of other New England stars in the race, including under 19 champion Katherine Hosking, who was recently named in the Australian team. 

"There will still be very pointy local riders that will definitely be up on the podium,” Hosking said. 

"You team them up and even the 12 Hour when they start doing teams, they can race pretty hard.

"The format is they go out for half an hour and that is shorter than what they normally race most of them.” 

The original event was scheduled for daylight savings but with lower light at this time of year, the race has dropped back to 11 hours.

This won’t worry the riders though as there is a big emphasis on the off-the-track environment. 

"It should be a nice weekend, we really do focus on making sure it is a social and fun weekend, we want people just to enjoy the sport,” Hosking said.