The Kowalski Classic is on the 20th of September, and entries close this Friday – 4th of September. Since the Kowalski started in 2012, it’s experienced excellent growth and stature, standing apart from many Australian marathon races due to the extensive (and sometimes oppressive) amount of singletrack. If you’re not entered yet, and sitting on the fence, we think these 10 reasons to entre might get you over the line.
Spring is here
It”s Spring! That means the days are longer, the air is warmer, and weekends are about to be double-booked with races and social engagements. While a warm start can’t be guaranteed for the Kowalski, it’s an awesome opportunity to get out in the Spring weather – and even duck into Canberra for Floriade if you’re interested.
There are more corners than you can handle
Despite the curious habit of mountain bikers bemoaning the lack of singletrack in marathons, and then cutting corners and straight lining trails where possible, the Kowalski Classic has probably got more singletrack than any other Australian marathon race. Around trees, over rocks, and snaking up and down hill sides, make sure you’re comfortable tipping it in. Do you rate your singletrack skills? Then prove your worth at the Kowalski Classic.
In 2015 there are more distances
The race has developed from it’s 50 and 90km options of 2012. While the 100km event is a real arse kicker, the 50 is a solid session of singletrack, and the new 25km will let newcomers, or experienced riders off the couch, get out and experience the vibe at the Kowalski Classic.
It’s part of the MTBA XCM Series
Late in 2014 MTBA announced there would be a six race XCM Series, and the Kowalski Classic partnered with the governing body. What does this mean? Well there will be a pretty strong pointy end of the field, but that’s a given due to the proximity to Canberra anyway. But if you have raced some of the series already, you can top up your points with a good finish.
Kowalski Bros have built new trails
First and foremost, the Kowalski Brothers are dedicated trail builders. They have been hard at work adding to the depth and range of their trails, using inspiration gained from riding and racing sweet singletrack at home and abroad. As such the 2015 course is new, and despite the venue being the same, and the volume and quality of singletrack remaining – much of the trails will be new for the Kowalski.
Your super fans get to see you more
Spectating at an XCM event can get a bit boring. But the 100km race does pass through the start/finish circus twice, allowing spectators and super fans another opportunity to see how their loved ones are going – or to see how any side bets they have going on one rider’s performance over another is faring.
Get your eye in for the Mont
Kowen and Sparrow are home of the Mont 24hr – the Kowalski Classic might just give you the oportunity to feel the flow of the Kow singletrack to make sure your riding is on point come 24hr time.
The Kowalski’s support equal prize money
In both the elite men’s and elite women’s field, prize money is equal for the podium. That’s worth supporting. As while it seems like it should be the norm – that’s not always the case.
Know your place in the pecking order
If you like to race, you’re no doubt interested in performance. A hard race like the 100km Kowalski Classic will let you know how you handle fatigue, and how you handle your bike compared to the nation’s best. A sprint through the 25km race will show you how you stand against some of the super quick riders, as they pin it through the trees. Why not head out and benchmark yourself on the bench-cut trails?
Full event details are on the Kowalski Classic website – don’t miss the entry cut off!
DO YOU REALLY NEED A 10TH????