For those that don’t live in Australia, it may seem comical that we complain about cold temperatures and other typical winter conditions. Although we don’t have months of snowpack, we do still have single digit temperatures (and lower), cold rain, wind, and the worst – short day light hours. So just like in the Northern Hemisphere, cycling gets harder in winter. Our racing just doesn’t shut down to the same extent. Road racing comes to the fore, as do club level races, fun races, team events, cyclocross, and a few newer marathons that are searching for calendar space.
Setting goals can work motivational wonders, especially if you have entered a great event that you need to ensure you are prepared for. Better yet, coerce some mates into going to, so you will have training partners in the lead up, and travel buddies on the way there.
Here’s a selection of great events towards the end of the Australian winter. Choose one, choose some – there is a lot of variety, and plenty of great trails available.
Three Ring Circus – 27-28 July
3 Ring Circus 2011 – the starting line. Photo: Mandy Lamont
If you live in Sydney or Canberra, you know the Wingello trails. They’re fun, non-threatening, and even drain pretty well. Wild Horizon’s always put on a great event, and the Three Ring Circus brings a festival atmosphere to the forest for the whole weekend. Night racing, different length races the next day, sideshows… it has it all. Whether you use it as a way to keep the legs sharp, or as a fun weekend in the Southern Highlands with the family or mates – you are set to have a good time. More details
Mackay Mountain Marathon – 3-4 August
The Mackay Mountain Marathon 80km course involves brutal climbs, great descents and plenty of single track.
New for 2013, the Mackay Mountain Marathon is set for success. With three courses of 15, 30 or 80km on offer, there is something for everyone. Utilising some big climbs, rainforest covered trails, bushland trails and competitor camping – the stage is set for a great weekend in tropical North Queensland. As a drawcard for elite racers, a $2000 winners cheque will be awarded for the fastest rider. There are category prizes on offer as well. More details on the event website.
JetBlack WSMTB 12hr – 10 August
Some people move beyond lap based endurance races, seeking out more adventure, something that a point to point marathon race or a stage race can offer. Regardless, races like the JetBlack WSMTB 12hr are fun events with hard racing. Whether you race as a team, or solo, the Rocky Trail Entertainment event crew make sure everyone has a good time. Great prizes are on offer, and the format can be a great introduction to mountain bike racing for new riders. More information is on the Rocky Trail site.
Cyclocross National Championships – 10 August
With less focus on XCM, Cyclocross may experience more growth over winter. Photo: Adam MacLeod
After the first National Cyclocross Series in 2012, the National Series has returned in 2013, with a Championship event hosted by both Cycling Australia and MTBA in Melbourne. With the deep fields and fast racing already displayed at the first two rounds in Adelaide, the National Championships will be hard fought. There is a jersey on the line, and the chance for a rider to be the first Australian National Cyclocross champion. Go down to race, or go down to watch! For more ‘cross information head to Cyclocross Australia.
Brownie Points Burner – 25 August
New for 2013, the Brownie Point Burner is held near Taree, three hours north of Sydney. While a little bit further away, the quality of the trails on offer should entice racers to this race. Utilising the fantastic Taree Tip Trails, plus plenty of other single track and double track on the hills behind – this course will be a true test for those who take on the full distance event. With an event centre at Clarendon Farm Retreat, riders and racers can camp or rent one of the cabins. With a lot of Australia’s top Marathon racers signing up, it should be a great days racing just before the end of winter. More details are on the event website.
Back Yamma Bigfoot – 25 August
Ondrej Slezak races at the Back Yamma Bigfoot. Yet another training day.
Running on the same day as the Brownie Points Burner, the Back Yamma Bigfoot is blisteringly fast race course near Parkes, NSW. With the promise of a cold start and hot racing, this attracts a lot of quick Canberra folk, for a fun race at the end of Winter. Further details are on the event website.
Of course, there are more races on offer as well, but this is just a selection to tempt you through to the end of winter.