Andy to take step into the unknown.

Byline: Adam Steel

Skelton cyclist Andy Conn is mapping out a bright off-road future.

The 38-year-old has been selected to represent Britain at the world mountain bike orienteering championships.

He is part of a nine-strong team competing in the October showcase at Ballarat in Australia.

"It's going to be a good experience against tough opposition," said Andy.

"I spoke to a couple of lads who rode the last world championships in Hungary a couple of years ago. They said that if you finish in the top 20 you'll be doing really well.

"It's a bit of a step into the unknown but I'll give it my best and see how it goes."

Andy plans to ride all three disciplines in the championships - the short course race over one hour, long course over two and the relay.

Competitors must find 15 check-points within the allocated time using a map provided.

An electronic smartcard punched into a box records each site visit and calculates the time taken in a laptop at the finish.

"It's an enjoyable sport," added Andy, who rides for Bike Scene in Guisborough.

"I've competed in mountain biking for 15 years and got into the orienteering side about three years ago, when the foot and mouth scare was at its height.

"Last year I won the North of England series and the national championship and I'll be competing in a number of events right through to the world championships this year.

"The best thing about the sport is that most races are within 150 miles of home and it's friendly and inexpensive.

"Obviously you need a few map reading skills, but it's not that complicated and there is no compass or grid references involved."

* Visit www.trailquest.co.uk to find out more about mountain bike orienteering.