Cyclists from around the UK and the continent descend on Edinburgh on Friday for the European Cycle Messenger Championships 2012. As well as the big race, the weekend sees a range of bike related competitions from track racing at Meadowbank to skid competitions at Marine Esplanade in Leith, from a hill sprint in Holyrood Park to track standing competition (with a demo by Danny Macaskill's stunt team The Clan). There'll also be parties and a ceilidh, and even a jaunt down to Portobello Beach.
"Edinburgh will be a fantastic venue for what promises to be a spectacular weekend featuring racing and trick and fun events. Every overseas courier can be sure of a warm Scottish welcome," says Eva Ballin, one of the main organisers and a bicycle courier in Edinburgh for almost 12 years.
"We welcome anyone with a bike to take part in the races and prove they can hold their own against the fittest of couriers."
The main race takes place from 10am on Sunday at Marine Esplanade following qualifiers on Saturday evening.
More details on website.