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Australians at Champery - UCI World Cup
Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Downhill
Four Australian downhill riders have finished in the top 20 at the latest edition of the 2010 UCI World Cup in Champery, Switzerland over the weekend.

As the countdown to next month’s world championships (August 31 to September 5) in Canada continue, 2010 Australian champion Chris Kovarik was the highest placed Aussie placing ninth in the elite men’s downhill event.

The downhill event returned to the Champery-leg of the World Cup for the first time since 2007.

Renowned as the steepest course on the international circuit, with sections approaching a 75 percent grade. The fourth series of the world cup gave riders a chance to check out the Alpine Village course which will play host to the World Championships in 2011.

The brutality of the course appeared to have little effect on Mitchell Delfs’ ride, dramatically improving his 81st place from Leogang last month to finish in 14th position, two spots ahead of 16th place finisher Shaun O’Connor who also improved on his previous world cup position.  Bryn Atkinson just scraped into the top 20, placing 20th in the elite men’s downhill event.

Great Britain’s Gee Atherton and South Africa’s Greg Minnaar again proved themselves as the ones to beat in the men’s downhill, finishing first and second respectively.  Atherton claimed his second win for the season to pull within 13 points of Minnaar in the overall series standings,

Cross Country
The cross-country course has been slightly modified from the one used last year, with a short climb and sharp descent added in the first half of the circuit. Due to falling rain, the new conditions made the new track quite tricky for the riders.  

In the men’s elite event, Andrew Blair finished in 116th position in front of Travis Frisby finishing 142nd, both claiming their best places for the series despite the challenging conditions, whilst Joshua Carlson crossed the finish line in 130th place and James Peacock in 149th.

Delighting local Swiss fans, Florian Vogel claimed his first victory for the series in the elite men’s cross-country event.  Teammate and world champion Nino Schurter took third behind European champion Jaroslav Kulhavy.

In the women’s race, Katherine O’Shea finished in 89th position making her the highest placed Australian rider ahead of 98th position holder Jodie Willet.

Natalie Schneitter also gave the locals something to celebrate claiming what was possibly the biggest victory of her career in the elite women’s cross-country race, while her team mate Eva Lechner of Italy took over the series leader’s jersey from Canadian Catherine Pendrel.  Willow Koeber from the United States took third position improving on her 13th position finish in Offenburg.

Hanus James represented Australia in the junior men’s cross-country finishing the race in 66th position.

Germany’s Julian Schelb impressively took out the junior title ahead of Belgium’s second place finisher Jeff Luyten.  Julien Trarieux from France took third position in what was a remarkable display from the youngsters.  

Just two rounds remain in the 2010 UCI World Cup series, the action heading to Val di Sole in Italy this weekend, followed by the finale in Windham, United States from August 28-29, where the riders will have their final hit-out prior to the world championships.

CORC announces that team entries for the 2010 Scott are now open and selling fast.
Thursday, July 22, 2010

CORC’s Scott 24 Hours of Adrenalin Australian MTB Championships – 9 & 10 October, Stromlo Forest Park, Canberra.

Old Faithful. Now in it 13th year, CORC’s Scott Australian 24 Hour MTB Championships, the largest of its type in the world, has affiliated with 24 Hours of Adrenalin so the great fun and participation event that everyone loves is still the same, still at Stromlo.

A World First. In 2010, for the first time in its 12 year history, the 24 Hours of Adrenalin World Solo Championships is leaving North America. CORC will host the event and it’s Australia’s turn to show the world what 24 hour mountain biking is all about  - with a few world solo champions under our belts already, where else could it go? And it’s going to be BIG.   How BIG?   Already twice the size of the previous biggest world solo champs.   Come and see the best freaks race hard for 24 hours – cheer the Aussies – including the 2006 World Solo Champion Craig Gordon and the 2009 World Solo Champion Jason English, or show your support for one of the 14 of nationalities currently entered, including the current British, Argentinian, and New Zealand champions!

Two Races. The World Champs and the Scott are two separate races. They will use the same start/finish areas, but out on the mountain, it will be two separate courses. The open nature of Stromlo allows solo and team riders to see each other for a lot of each lap – double the action!

What to look forward to:

Number of entrants – course congestion
This year the Scott entries are capped at 450 team riders on-track, so that could mean between 1800 and 2500 team riders in total. This will provide a much less congested course than 2009, going back to the average rider track spacings of 2007 and 2008. Plenty of room to be able to dig in deep for a hot lap or trundle round as best you can.

Team marquees
Stay out of the cold and buy a fully fitted team marquee (6x6m) conveniently located at transition on the crit track. Comes with tables, chairs, power, lighting and gas heating. Check it out at www.scott24hr.com.au.

Expo Area
A great chance to check out all the latest bling, pick up a few bargains, or start on the Christmas shopping! The only area where trade is allowed at the Scott 24Hours of Adrenalin still has a few spots left, but is already looking like a great place to stock up on all those bike bits and pieces, as well as accessories.

Big screens & live results
Watch all the action from out on course on the big screens at transition and solo pit row. Get live results on big screens, access via PC at the event & online

The usual stuff that the Scott always provides
·        Great camaraderie & vibe of 2500 mountain bikers hanging out together for 24 hours.
·        Product displays & bike bling
·        Hot food, coffee, pancakes,
·        Hot showers
·        Plenty of camping space & easy access to parking,
·        Dedicated radio broadcast
·        Loads of giveaways

Get your team together & be there in 2010
Event website: http://www.scott24hr.com.au/

Expression of Interest sought for supply of services to 2010-2011 National Season
Friday, July 16, 2010

MTBA is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from providers to supply the following services in the 2010 - 2011 National Season:

• Technical Delegate
• Timing and Results Service
• First Response Medical Service

Document Download:
TD1011EOI.pdf (PDF - 107 Kb)
Medical1011EOI.pdf (PDF - 75 Kb)
Timing1011EOI.pdf (PDF - 79 Kb)

2010-2011 National Series dates and venues - UPDATE1 (Baw Baw)
Wednesday, July 7, 2010

The date for Round 2 (DH) of the 2010-2011 National Series has been changed to January 15-16 2011.

This was done to avoid a known date clash with a large 24hr race (also in Victoria) and the Newtons Nation, a multi-facetted gravity event to be hosted in Bathurst (NSW).

Mojo Events, the Newtons Nation promoters said, "Newton's Nation will once again welcome many thousands of revellers to the famous Mount Panorama motor racing circuit in Bathurst NSW and play host to three days and two nights of world class gravity and action sports, featuring competitors from across the globe – all to the tune of some of the best bands and DJ's in the country."

The make-up of the 2010 - 2011 National Series is now:
 
XCO1, XCC1, DH1 and 4X1:  5 - 7 November - Illinbah (Qld)
XCO2 and XCC2: 19 - 21 November – You Yangs (Vic)
XCO3, XCC3, DH2 and 4X2: 10 - 12 December – Hobart (Tas)
DH3: 15 - 16 January – Mt Baw Baw (Vic)
XCO4, XCC4 and DH4:  4 - 6 February – Mt Buller (Vic)
 
Further 4X rounds are being planed and will be released as soon as they are confirmed.

Key features of the 2010 - 2011 season include:

• Increased prize money totaling in excess of $70,000 cash plus product
• A "end of series" prize cheque for the series winner (for Elite, U23 and U19)
  
• More targeted DH entry fee
• Same great organisation and administration
• High quality venues
  

Champion duo lead formidable Aussie lineup for World Champs
Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Wednesday, 30 June 2010
 
Reigning world four cross champions Jared Graves and Caroline Buchanan will lead a formidable 38-strong Australian team at the 2010 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships in Canada this August.
 
The championships, to be held from August 31 to September 5 in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada, will celebrate twenty years of international mountain biking.  
 
Australia played host to the mountain bike world championships in 2009 and in what was Australia’s most successful campaign in history, Graves and Buchanan took advantage of the home course and raucous crowd in Canberra to secure the coveted rainbow jersey.  A silver medal for Shaun O’Connor (junior men’s downhill) and bronze for Michael Hannah (men’s downhill) and Holly Baarspul (junior women’s downhill) capping off the nation’s impressive performance.
 
Graves will ride into the 2010 championships as the raging favourite, dominating the elite men’s four cross event over the past two years.  The 27-year-old is on track for back-to-back UCI World Cup titles, securing three out of four possible wins and a 175 point lead over his closest rival, Tomas Slavik (CZE), at the half way point of the season.  
 
Buchanan’s preparations will take a different path, balancing training between both her mountain bike and BMX commitments.  The 19-year-old will represent Australia at the BMX World Championships in South Africa in July before making her way to Canada in August.
 
Two-time world downhill champion Samuel Hill (2006 and 2007) will also don the green and gold, the 24-year-old joining five teammates in the men’s elite downhill competition, including O’Connor who makes the transition to the open competition.
 
Four cross rider Randall Huntington will be Australia’s oldest competitor, turning 40 during the championships, joining Graves to take on the world in the elite men’s four cross competition at the ripe age of 39.   At the other end of the scale, Troy Brosnan will compete in the junior men’s downhill aged just 17.
 
Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) high performance manager Chris Clarke, said he was confident the squad will deliver some great results.
 
“This is a very competitive team across the board, led by our two reigning world champions Caroline Buchanan and Jared Graves,” Clarke said.
 
“We have a good mix of riders who have the experience and know what it takes to compete, and win, on the world stage, and those who will benefit greatly from the experience of these leaders and the international competition.”
 
MTBA President Russ Baker congratulated the members of the Australian mountain bike team.
 
"On behalf of the MTBA Management Committee, I congratulate all riders selected to represent Australia at the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships,” Baker said.
 
“To be selected to represent your country is a great honour, and we will all be eagerly watching your achievements."
 
2010 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships - Australian Team
 
Cross Country
 
Cross Country (XCO) – Elite Men
Andrew Blair (NSW)
Lachlan Norris (VIC)
Ben Henderson (ACT)
Daniel McConnell (VIC)
 
Cross Country (XCO) - Under 23 Men
Cal Britten (VIC)
Paul van der Ploeg (VIC)
 
Cross Country (XCO) - Junior Men
Kyle Ward (NSW)
Mitchell Codner (NSW)
Trenton Day (NSW)
Cameron Ivory (NSW)
 
Cross Country (XCO) – Elite Women
Rowena Fry (TAS)
Heather Logie (ACT)
Kate Potter (NSW
Katherine O’Shea (VIC)
 
Cross Country (XCO) - Under 23 Women
Gracie Elvin (ACT)
Therese Rhodes (SA)
Rebecca Henderson (ACT)
 
Four Cross
 
4-Cross (4X) – Elite Men
Richard Levinson (QLD)
David Habicht (VIC)
Jared Graves (QLD)
Randall Huntington (QLD
 
4-Cross (4X) – Elite Women
Caroline Buchanan (ACT )
Sarsha Huntington (QLD)
 
Downhill
 
Downhill (DHI) – Elite Men
Shaun O'Connor (NSW)
Bryn Atkinson (NSW)
Mitchell Delfs (WA)
Michael Hannah (QLD )
Samuel Hill (WA)
Chris Kovarik (QLD)
 
Downhill (DHI) - Junior Men
Troy Brosnan (SA)
Ayden Wyber (VIC)
Phillip Piazza (NSW)
Antony Moore (QLD)
 
Downhill (DHI) - Junior Women
Holly Baarspul (WA)
Emily Hockey (SA)
 
Bicycle Trials
 
Trials 26" – Elite Men
Joe Brewer (VIC)
Andrew Dickey (VIC )
Nathan Mummery (VIC)

The final date for appeals has been extended to COB (EST) Monday 5th July. Appeals can only be considered in accordance with the process and procedure given in Section A (General Selection Eligibility Criteria and Appeals Guide), Clause 8.

For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook - Jump Media and Marketing
03 9500 0122 or 0430 177 668
michelle@jumpmedia.com.au

2011 Australian MTB Marathon Championships - Hosting EOI
Saturday, June 26, 2010

The 2011 MTBA Australian MTB Marathon Championships will be one of the selection events for an Australian team for the 2011 UCI World MTB Marathon Championships to be staged in Montebelluna Italy, 26th June 2011.

Hosting information and the Expression of Interest is available for download below.

Further information can be obtained from the MTBA office.

Document Download:
2011XCMChampsEOI.pdf (PDF - 364 Kb)

Graves rolls out third World Cup victory in Austria
Monday, June 21, 2010

Monday, 21 June 2010
 
Reigning world four cross champion Jared Graves (Yeti Fox Shox) has taken out his third win of the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup season in Leogang, Austria on the weekend, to further extend his lead in the men's four cross (4X) standings.
 
The 27-year-old Queenslander continued his march towards back-to-back World Cup titles, defeating RSP 4 Cross trio of Tomas Slavik (CZE), Michal Marosi (CZE) and Joost Wichman (NED) in the final.
 
In cold and wet conditions, the men's competition came down to those riders who could remain upright, with many of the top guns crashing out in the earlier rounds after slipping and sliding in the muddy conditions.
 
However in the final, Graves got out in front immediately with his usual fast gate, and maintained control all the way to the finish line.
 
Wichman made attempts to close in on the Australian; however some bad line choices cost the Dutch rider, who slipped back to fourth position.
 
"I knew things were gonna get crazy," said Graves. "Those RSP guys, they gang up on me.
 
“It's wild racing in the mud. Always a ton of fun. Anything can happen, so I had a great time today. I think this (type of course) is what we need more of. I loved it from the first time I saw it. Big lines, big gaps; you can really make some time."
 
Graves' third win now puts him 175 points ahead of Slavik in the overall standings, with Wichman 190 points behind in third.
 
In other Australian results, Queenslander Richard Levinson placed 16th whilst Victorian David Habicht finished 29th overall.
 
Australia’s sole female representative, Queenslander Sarsha Huntington placed third in the small final, to finish seventh overall in the women’s four cross. Defending 2009 women's champion Anneke Beerten of the Netherlands took out the final, to claim her first World Cup victory of the year.
 
The men’s downhill event was also greeted by the same wet and muddy conditions which had deteriorated the course significantly, leaving big holes and ruts full of water.
 
After qualifying second fastest, South African Greg Minnaar (Santa Cruz Syndicate) withstood the difficult conditions to clock the fastest time in the final (4:05.65), pipping Great Britain’s Gee Atherton (Commencal) by just three quarters of a second.
 
National champion Chris Kovarik (Chain Reaction Cycles/Intense) was the best of the Australians, stopping the clock in 4:18.36 to place 18th, followed by Shaun O’Connor (27th – 4:20.68), Michael Hannah (46th – 4:25.70), Troy Brosnan (50th – 4:26.99), Joshua Button (61st – 4:30.10) and Bryn Atkinson (63rd – 4:30.53).
 
As the countdown continues to August’s 2010 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships in Canada, three rounds remain in the 2010 UCI World Cup:
 
July 24 – 25           Champery, Switzerland            Cross Country, Downhill
July 31 – Aug 1      Val di Sole, Italy                       Cross Country, Downhill, Four Cross
Aug 29 – 29           Windham, USA                        Cross Country, Downhill, Four Cross

 
For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook - Jump Media and Marketing
0430 177 668
michelle@jumpmedia.com.au

Adelaide to host Australian Championships for next two years
Thursday, June 17, 2010

Thursday, 17 June 2010
 
Mountain Bike Australia and Events South Australia are pleased to announce that the MTBA Australian MTB Championships will return to Adelaide but will move to February for the next two years.
 
Following a very successful competition staged at Eagle Mountain Bike Park in January, the nation’s best mountain bike riders will vie for the national title from February 22 – 27 in 2011 and from February 21 – 26 in 2012.
 
Mountain Bike Australia Executive Officer Tony Scott said the change in date was due to a number of reasons, all of which will benefit the mountain bike community.
 
“Eagle Park is a fantastic mountain biking venue and we’re looking forward to holding our national titles in Adelaide for the next two years,” said Scott.
 
“For a number of reasons, we have decided to move the event from January to February in 2011 and 2012.
 
“Last season the national championships were held in the middle of the Jayco Australian MTB Series, however the move to February will allow the national championships to be a fitting finale to the summer season.
 
“This later date will also provide a more suitable preparation for those riders going on to compete on the international circuit at the conclusion of the Australian season.”
 
Events South Australia General Manager Hitaf Rasheed said the return of the event to Eagle Park will reinforce Adelaide’s reputation as the home of cycling.
 
“The 2010 MTBA Australian MTB Championships was a great success, attracting over 700 riders and 4,000 spectators to the event at Adelaide’s Eagle Park,” said Rasheed.
 
“We look forward to hosting the national championships in 2011 and 2012. South Australia has a wonderful calendar of brilliant sporting, arts and cultural festivals and events such as this helps to cement our reputation as Australia’s home of cycling.”
 
South Australian Minister for Recreation and Sport, Michael Wright, said the newly improved tracks and facilities at Eagle Park will be ready for more riders and spectators in 2011.
 
“The new 4X track was opened for the championships in 2010 and there was great interest in this exciting form of racing that had never been seen at this level before in South Australia.”
 
“Local riders and visitors test their own skills on the tracks and trails at Eagle Mountain Bike Park throughout the year. The chance to come back in February to watch the best in the nation flaunt their skills and enviable courage on these same tracks is an experience not to be missed.”
 
 
-ENDS-
 
For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook - Jump Media and Marketing
0430 177 668
michelle@jumpmedia.com.au

Huge prizepool for the ‘Digicel Tour de Timor’
Monday, June 7, 2010

His Excellency, the President of Timor-Leste, Dr José Ramos Horta announced an increase in the prize pool of the ‘Digicel Tour de Timor’ today, coinciding with entries opening online for the 2010 Event, to be held 13 – 17 Sep 2010.
 
The President commented “I am delighted to invite riders, both new and returning, to experience the world's toughest bike race, in Asia's newest nation”.

With prize-money of US$80,000 up for grabs including $15,000 for individual male and female winners, the 5 day ‘Digicel Tour de Timor’ is one of the richest mountain bike races in the world. The race is also an amazing adventure, covering high mountain roads and visiting historic towns including Balibo.

Last year’s tour was an incredible success and race winner, the Australian rider, Neil Van der Ploeg will be back again to defend his title. Neil commented that “Win or lose, I think I’d be crazy to miss out on the 2010 TDT, I’m already pumped”.

Race Director, Dave White noted that the new course this year was going to be tough, hot and a whole lot of fun. Mountain bikes are compulsory for this race and the course has some great new tracks including a special surprise for the last days ride back into Dili.
 
 For further information visit the tour website: www.tourdetimor.com

Best regards
Dave White
Race Director
(+670 736 8935)

Dili Marathon
Digicel Tour de Timor
MONT 24 Hr 

Graves notches up second World Cup victory - UCI World Cup
Monday, June 7, 2010

Media Release
Monday, 7 June 2010
 
Reigning world four cross champion Jared Graves has recorded his second World Cup victory of the year at Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, further strengthening his lead at the top of the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup standings.
 
As the countdown continues to August’s 2010 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships in Canada, the 27-year-old Queenslander lived up to his reputation as the world No 1 comfortably defeating Joost Wichman (NED), Michal Prokop (CZE) and Romain Saladini (FRA) in Saturday’s final.
 
In uncharacteristically warm and dry conditions, the course was dusty and loose, causing numerous washouts in the corners. A new rock garden through the middle section of the course added a new element of difficulty.
 
The final saw Graves once again shoot to the front out of the gate, closely followed by Prokop, who managed to squeeze in ahead of Wichman before the first corner.
 
However, Wichman fought back, with an impressive inside pass on the third corner to take the second spot behind a disappearing Graves, who continued to extend his lead.
 
Graves easily held on to secure his third consecutive win on the Fort William course, while Wichman managed to hold off Prokop for second.
 
"The corners were getting bad," admitted Graves, "so I was pretty much worried the whole way down.
 
“I'm so happy to get the win. It was a sketchy start (to the final). I was banging elbows with Joost, and I thought we might both go down. He certainly kept me honest today."
 
On track for back-to-back UCI World Cup titles, Graves now has a commanding lead in the series standings with 350 points, followed by Wichman (225 points) and Slavik (150 points) in third.
 
Australia’s sole female representative, Sarsha Huntington (QLD) placed fourth in the small final, to finish eighth overall in the women’s four cross.
 
On Sunday, the downhill riders faced one of the longest and toughest courses on the World Cup circuit. The 2.8 km course takes riders down Aonach Mor, the ninth highest peak in the United Kingdom, with a descent of 555 metres.
 
Great Britain’s Gee Atherton impressed in front of his home crowd, flying across the finish line in 4:35.70 to take the win. Kiwi Cameron Cole (4:36.18) and South African Greg Minnaar (4:36.18) filled the minor places on the podium.
 
Queenslander Michael Hannah (4:37.75) was the best of the Aussies with the fifth fastest time of the day, with Shaun O’Connor (8th - 4:41.54) and Bryn Atkinson (16th – 4:43.45) also finishing in the top twenty.
 
South Australian young gun Troy Brosnan was the fastest junior in the field, clocking 4:53.79 to place 57th overall.
 
The downhill and four cross action now heads to Leogang in Austria for the sixth leg of the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup from June 19 to 20.
 
For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook – MTBA Media
03 9500 0122, 0430 177 668 or michelle@jumpmedia.com.au
 

CAPE TO CAPE MTB REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN!
Friday, June 4, 2010

Cape to Cape MTB have made some great changes to their online Registration System, all in the name of "user friendliness". We will now be using the popular Register Now system to accept online registrations.  The Register Now system has been utilised in previous Cape to Cape MTB events, and this year we will move to a newly created Register Now system that has been developed in conjunction with MTBA.  The new system can be accessed by simply clicking here, or by through the Cape to Cape website.

All registrations processed through the old system have been recorded and will be transferred over to the new Register Now system. Those who had registered using the previous system will be sent an email to confirm their registration has been processed. If for any reason you do not receive a confirmation email by June 18, please contact Cape to Cape MTB Administration on 1300 137 149 or email registration@capetocapemtb.com.

If you have any questions or difficulties using the new Register Now system please call 1300 137 149 or email registration@capetocapemtb.com.

Riders can also register by printing off the hardcopy registration form (also available on the registration page of the Cape to
Cape MTB website) and faxing the completed form to (03) 9696 4655.

Grab a Partner - Try the Team Relay Option!

Not sure whether you are up for the whole ride? Why not take up our new Team Relay entry option and tag team each stage with a friend?  In 2010 we have launched a new Team Relay option, where teams of two riders can complete
each stage of the event.  On each day, a rider change over point will be located at around the half way point of the stage, where the second rider of the team will be able to tag in and take over the riding.  There will be special prizes for this entry category too so now there is really no excuse for not grabbing a partner and joining in the race!

If you wish to enquire about submitting a corporate or sponsored team please contact us at registration@capetocapemtb.com.

Lots of exciting event updates will be coming over the next few weeks, with details of evening functions, accommodation and more! Stay tuned...

DON'T MISS OUT!

For more information on Cape to Cape MTB please visit www.capetocapemtb.com

Dwellingup Mountain Bike Classic
Friday, June 4, 2010

After the huge success of the inaugural 2009 Dwellingup 100, TriEvents and the Perth Mountain Bike Club are proud to announce that the 2010 Dwellingup 100 MTB Classic will be held on Saturday 18 September.

The charming country town of Dwellingup is located just over an hours drive south of Perth. Set among pristine jarrah forest and water catchment areas, Dwellingup offers nature at its absolute best - Nature and an awesome Mountain Bike challenge !!!

The Dwellingup Mountain Bike Classic provides three different distances that cater for riders of all ages and abilities. You can participate as an individual, or as part of a team.

The Dwellingup 100 is one hundred kilometres of single track, fire trail, a bit of bitumen as well as some sections of the Munda Biddi Trail and the challenging Turner Hill circuit. If you're looking for a real challenge, we think we've got just what you're looking for.

The Dwellingup 40 features forty kilometres of undulating track through the picturesque Nanga District of Dwellingup. It's certainly no stroll through the bush - the course provided many of the roadies, Triathletes and recreational mountain bikers who participated last year with a whole new experience.

D14 -  Juniors and Novices have no reason to miss out on the Dwellingup experience, the 14km course takes in many of the terrific features the area has to offer, providing a fun experience for the entry level riders.

For all event details and online entry go to www.dwellingup100.com.au phone 08 9204 1899 or email info@trievents.com.au

The 2009 event sold out before the close off date, so don't be disappointed, get your entries in early.

For more information contact

David Budge
TriEvents
P 08 9204 1899
M 0402 279 306
E dave@trievents.com.au

Australia’s world champion primed to bounce back at Fort William
Thursday, June 3, 2010

World four cross champion Jared Graves will look to maintain his reign as the world No 1 and consolidate his position on top of the UCI World Cup standings, when he hits the Fort William dirt in the Scottish Highlands this weekend.
 
The Queenslander suffered a shock loss to Czech rider Michal Marosi in the last round of the UCI World Cup in Maribor, Slovenia but the 27-year-old remains confident of defending his 2009 World Cup title.
 
“My training has been really good, so I feel as confident as ever for the win this weekend,” said Graves, who holds a comfortable 65 point lead in the series with four races to go.
 
“My biggest rivals I think will be Czech riders Tomas Slavik and Joost Wichman, they are the biggest threats for the overall points so far.”
 
A big fan of the course at Fort William, Graves will be targeting a three-peat when action gets underway on Friday night.
 
“(The course) suits me pretty good. I’ve won here the past two years, so looking to make it three in a row. The new rock garden that went in last year was pretty wild!”

As the countdown continues to August’s UCI World Mountain Bike Championships in Mont-Saint Anne in Canada, Graves said his training and preparations have stepped up a gear since last year.
 
“So far so good this year. I feel I’ve been able to keep on top of my training better than last year, so hopefully that translates into more wins. It’s still a fairly long time to world champs though.”
 
Australian championships four cross silver medallist Sarsha Huntington (QLD) will be Australia’s sole female representative this weekend.
 
Another Australian rider demanding plenty of attention this year is 16-year-old downhill star Troy Brosnan.
 
As expected, the Adelaide young gun currently sits on top of the junior downhill World Cup standings.
 
This weekend, Brosnan will be amongst fifteen Australian downhill riders who will test themselves against the world’s best and charge down the face of Fort William’s Aonach Mor, the ninth highest mountain in the United Kingdom.
 
With a descent of 555m, the 2.8km course is one of the longest and toughest on the world circuit.
 
Dual world champion Sam Hill (WA) who was the fastest Australian in Maribor last round, is expected to be in the mix along with Bryn Atkinson (ACT), Mitchell Delfs (WA) and Michael Hannah (QLD).
 
Reigning world champion Steve Peat, the most successful downhill competitor ever, will start as favourite in front of his home crowd.
 
UCI World Mountain Bike Cup
Fort William, UK
June 5-6
 
Four Cross (third round) – Australian competitors
 
Jared Graves (QLD)               Yeti Fox Shox Factory Race Team
Richard Levinson (QLD)
Graeme Mudd (NSW)
David Habicht (VIC)
Sarsha Huntington (QLD)
 
Downhill (second round) – Australian competitors
 
Samuel Hill (WA)                    Monster Energy / Specialized / Mad Catz
Bryn Atkinson (ACT)
Mitchell Delfs (WA)
Michael Hannah (QLD)          GT Bicycles
Joshua Button (NSW)             Kona
Shaun O’Connor (NSW)         Kenda-Playbiker
Troy Brosnan (SA)                  Monster Energy / Specialized / Mad Catz
Chris Kovarik  (QLD)              Chain Reaction Cycles/Intense
Rhys Willemse (QLD)             Ancillotti Doganaccia Racing Team
Will Rischbieth (SA)
Laurie Dinham (SA)                Suspension Center
Benjamin Ayling (QLD)
Rhys Atkinson (NSW)
Graeme Mudd (NSW)
Daniel Lavis (NSW)
 
For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook – MTBA Media
03 9500 0122, 0430 177 668 or michelle@jumpmedia.com.au

One Epic Mountain Bike Journey - 2010 Terra Australis
Friday, May 28, 2010

The 2010 Terra Australis once again provided some amazing stories, none more so than Ben Rennie and Adam Webb who decided to donate a week of their time for a good cause. They used Terra as a vehicle to raise money for STREAT, a social enterprise that provides a pathway for disengaged youth. As noble as their efforts were the true character of these guys was on show every single day of the event. They had done 6 hours (collectively) on mountain bikes before the event yet managed to spend 62 hours in the saddle and completed all bar the truly epic stage 4 circumnavigation of Mt Buffalo. Their story was amazing, others were just truly inspiring. Mel Behrens rode the entire race with her teammate Jacqui Kennett. What made her effort so amazing is she did it with only one eye. Her determination to show her children that anything is possible, even something as challenging as Terra Australis inspired everyone who heard her story.
 
Terra Australis is a special event. The camaraderie that develops throughout the week cannot be described. Mateship is a strong Australian characteristic and as one competitor commented post the 2010 Terra Australis “nothing galvanises a group of people like a shared, tough journey”. ‘Terra’ is tough but with the right preparation it is achievable.

Australia’s international mountain bike epic, the Terra Australis is on again in 2011. The event promises to be just as epic, just as challenging and just as rewarding as the first two instalments. The race will traverse 570km through Victoria’s High Country starting at the alpine resort of Falls Creek. The event is a race for some but a personal journey for many.

If you are looking for a challenge, something to share with a mate then Terra is it. Go to www.terraaustralismtbepic.com to find out more about the Terra Australis.
 
Entries are open
Terra Australis Great Southern Land Mountain Bike Epic
Sunday March 20th  – Saturday March 26th 2011
 
For more information in regards to Terra Australis please contact,
Clayton Neil
Director - Finish Line Events Pty Ltd
+61 3 5728 2789
clayton@finishlineevents.com.au
www.terraaustralismtbepic.com

Singapore Youth Olympic Games nominees
Thursday, May 27, 2010

Cycling Australia is pleased to announce the four riders who have been listed in the long team for nomination to the Australian Olympic Committee for the 2010 Youth Olympic Games being staged in Singapore from 14 to 26 August.

The Games will bring together approximately 3,600 of the world's talented young athletes aged between 14 and 18. The AOC will select the final team.

Cycling at the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games includes a BMX, MTB and road race as well as a road time trial.

Each team will include three junior men and one junior woman with the three men all contesting the road race plus one other event. The junior woman will compete in all three disciplines. Medals will be awarded based on the combined points tally of each team.

The following riders have been listed in the long team for nomination:

Michael Baker (Torrens, ACT 08.05.1992) (MTB cross country and road race)
Jay McCarthy (Maryborough, QLD 08.09.1992) (time trial and road race)
Matthew Dunsworth (Boronia, VIC 14.04.1992) (BMX and road race)
Kirsten Dellar (Carlisle, WA 29.10.1992) (BMX, MTB cross country and road time trial)

Jay McCarthy, who won the U19 road race and was second in the time trial at the Australian Championships was this week selected in the Australian team for the Junior Road World Championships being staged in Italy in early August.

Matthew Dunsworth and Kirsten Dellar are both reigning Junior Australian BMX Champions and have been selected in the Australian team for July's BMX World Championships in South Africa.

Meantime the versatile Michael Baker, who was the 2009 junior MTB cross country Australian Champion has this year added a road focus to his cycling. He was fifth at this year's MTB nationals in January and earlier this month finished fourth at the U19 road nationals.

___________________________________________________________
For further information (media only) please contact:


Gennie Sheer, Sheer Rhetoric
Marketing & Communications Manager, Cycling Australia
Tel: +61 418 863 533
Email: gennie.sheer@cycling.org.au
Cycling Australia website www.cycling.org.au

Frances Cordaro
Manager, Media and Olympic Education, Australian Olympic Committee
Tel: + 61 2 9336 0248
Email: Frances.Cordaro@Olympics.com.au

World Cup report - Offenburg
Monday, May 24, 2010

Dual Olympic champion Julien Absalon of France has taken out the men’s elite cross country race at the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Offenburg overnight, to defeat major rival and current world champion Nino Schurter of Switzerland by a convincing 49 second margin.
 
In front of 20,000 raucous spectators, Absalon claimed his fourth victory at the annual Offenburg event to cement his position on top of the UCI World Cup standings, crossing the finish line in 1:53:26.
 
Absalon and Schurter controlled the race from the outset but on the third lap, Schurter slipped at the entrance of ‘Wolfsdrop’ and the Frenchman made the most of the opportunity to break away.
 
Three riders battled for the remaining place on the podium. Christoph Sauser (SUI), Florian Vogel (SUI) and Jaroslav Kulhavy (CZE) remained tight until lap six when Kulhavy managed to open up a gap to finish in third position only 19 seconds behind Schurter.
 
Lachlan Norris (65th) was the best-placed Australian rider, finishing 12 minutes behind Abslaon, followed by Dan McConnell (105th) and Andrew Blair (129th) who were a further two laps adrift.
 
After three rounds, Absalon (570 pts) holds a 44 point lead in the UCI World Cup standings, followed by Schurter (526 pts) and Spain’s José Antonio Hermida Ramos (470 pts).
 
In the women’s elite race, Canada’s Catharine Pendrel held off her Luna Pro teammate Georgia Gould from the United States, to secure victory by 28 seconds.
 
Katherine O’Shea (61st) was the best placed of the Aussie women finishing 16.23 minutes behind Pendrel, with Rebecca Henderson (78th) and Joanne Wall (86th) one lap behind.
 
Pendrel (520 pts) currently leads the UCI World Cup standings, followed by Koerber (480 pts) and Italian Eva Lechner (455 pts).
 
On Saturday, Dutch rider Michiel Van Der Heijden won the junior men and Pauline Ferrand Prevot of France took out the junior women’s race..
 
Mitchell Codner was the sole Aussie in action on Saturday finishing 68th, 18 minutes after Van Der Heijden.
 
The next round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup will see the downhill and four cross riders in action at Fort William in Great Britain from June 5 to 6.
 
The cross country riders have a small break before returning at Champery in Switzerland on the weekend of July 24 to 25.

UCI World Cup #3 - Maribor
Monday, May 17, 2010

Australian four cross riders Jared Graves and Sarsha Huntington have collected silver medals at the third round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Maribor, Slovakia over the weekend.

Extremely muddy and sloppy conditions led to an upset in the women’s four cross final on Saturday, with Great Britain’s Fionn Griffiths (Norco World Team) taking the win.

Huntington was joined by fellow Australian and world champion Caroline Buchanan (Commencal) in the women’s final, however things didn’t go according to plan for Buchanan on her international debut in the rainbow jersey.

Colliding with Griffiths, Buchanan went down midrace, before defending World Cup champion Anneke Beerten (NED) also crashed into the Canberra rider, giving Griffiths a clear run to the finish line. The upsets continued in the men’s final, Czech rider Michal Marosi defeating world champion Jared Graves (Yeti Fox Shox).

Riders were sliding and crashing in every preliminary round, however defending Maribor champion Joost Wichman (NED) and Tomas Slavik (CZE) managed to make it through to join Graves and Marosi in the final.

Marosi had only won one heat prior to final, after barely qualifying for the event at 59th out of 64 starters. He stuck to Graves' wheel out of the gate, and was ready to pounce when a crash by Slavik forced the Australian to hesitate at one of the corners. Once in front, Marosi held on to take the win.

In the men’s downhill on Sunday, South Africa’s Greg Minnaar broke a streak of bad luck in Maribor, to become the first World Cup Downhill leader in the 2010 series.

Minnaar decided to ride cautiously in the upper technical section, but powered through the lower third to beat British riders Gee Atherton (0.25sec) and Brendan Fairclough (1.82).  

Dual world champion Sam Hill (Monster Energy/Specialized/Mad Catz) was the fastest Australian finishing fifth, 4.68 seconds slower than Minnaar. Bryn Atkinson (12th - 7.31), Mitchell Delfs (15th – 7.78) and Michael Hannah (30th 12.21) were the other Australian riders in the top 30.

South Australian Troy Brosnan (Monster Energy/Specialized/Mad Catz) was the highest placed junior in the race, placing 48th overall just under 20 seconds behind Minnaar.

2008 world champion Rachel Atherton from Great Britain was too strong in the women’s race. Proving that a year away from racing has not affected her skills, she became the first downhill leader in the 2010 World Cup series.

The cross country riders return to the fore this coming weekend (May 22 & 23) for the fourth round of the UCI World Cup in Offenburg, Germany.

More than 20,000 spectators are expected to witness the world’s best cross country riders tackle the demanding 5.1km track, with its hair raising drops and difficult climbs.

FINAL RESULTS - MTB World Cup Downhill #1 & Four Cross #2
Maribor, Slovenia - May 15-16 2010

Women’s Four Cross Final
1 Fionn Griffiths (GBr) Norco World Team    
2 Sarsha Huntington (Aus)    
3 Anneke Beerten (Ned) Suspension Center    
4 Caroline Buchanan (Aus) Commencal

Men’s Four Cross Final
1 Michal Marosi (Cze) RSP 4 Cross Racing Team    
2 Jared Graves (Aus) Yeti Fox Shox Factory Race Team    
3 Joost Wichman (Ned) RSP 4 Cross Racing Team    
4 Tomas Slavik (Cze) RSP 4 Cross Racing Team

Women’s Downhill
1 Rachel Atherton (GBr) Commencal 0:04:03.420  
2 Sabrina Jonnier (Fra) Team Maxxis-Rocky Mountain 0:00:09.730  
3 Floriane Pugin (Fra) Scott 11 0:00:12.910  
4 Myriam Nicole (Fra) Commencal Superiders 0:00:15.500  
5 Petra Bernhard (Aut) RC Alpine Commencal Austria 0:00:18.970  
6 Mio Suemasa (Jpn) FFC 0:00:19.420  
7 Claire Buchar (Can) Chain Reaction Cycles/Intense 0:00:20.590  
8 Tracy Moseley (GBr) Trek World Racing 0:00:20.690  
9 Emilie Siegenthaler (Swi) Scott 11 0:00:21.760  
10 Emmeline Ragot (Fra) Suspension Center 0:00:23.570  

Men’s Downhill
1 Greg Minnaar (RSA) Santa Cruz Syndicate 0:03:23.42  
2 Gee Atherton (GBr) Commencal 0:00:00.25  
3 Brendan Fairclough (GBr) Monster Energy / Specialized / Mad Catz 0:00:01.82  
4 Fabien Pedemanaud (Fra) Scott 11 0:00:02.42  
5 Samuel Hill (Aus) Monster Energy / Specialized / Mad Catz 0:00:04.68  
6 Steve Smith (Can) MS Evil Racing 0:00:05.11  
7 Aaron Gwin (USA) Yeti Fox Shox Factory Race Team 0:00:05.28  
8 Joseph Smith (GBr) Kona 0:00:06.93  
9 Cameron Cole (NZl) Team Maxxis-Rocky Mountain 0:00:07.23  
9 Justin Leov (NZl) Trek World Racing

Aussie world champs line up in World Cup
Friday, May 14, 2010

Media Release
Friday, 14 May 2010
 
Australia’s three world champions headline seventeen Aussies in action on the dirt in Maribor, Slovakia this weekend (May 15-16), for the third round of the 2010 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.
 
2009 world four cross (4X) champions Jared Graves (QLD) and Caroline Buchanan (ACT), and dual downhill world champion Sam Hill (WA) lead the charge, in what will be a major test ahead of the world championships in Canada (August 21 – September 5) later this year.
 
Buchanan will have the opportunity to race in the coveted rainbow jersey of world champion for the first time on the international stage.
 
The 19-year-old arrives in Maribor in ominous form after a sensational domestic series on the mountain bike, and encouraging results on the world BMX circuit which sees her currently sitting in second position on the BMX World Cup standings.
 
“I can’t wait to ride in the UCI Stripes and on my new Commencal bike,” said Buchanan.
 
“I’m feeling pretty confident after some great World Cup BMX results, however all of the girls on the World Cup circuit are the best out there and all have a chance at winning the gold.”
 
“I believe that the training and preparations on my BMX bike have taken my skills to the next level and I am really excited to see where I am at on the mountain bike scene.”
 
Buchanan returns to Maribor to defend her gold medal and recent small changes to the course should suit the Canberra local.
 
“Last year the muddy conditions didn’t suit me but Jill and Anneke had a crash in the final and I took the win. I have heard that this year there are some changes to the course that I think will suit me.”
 
Buchanan hasn’t competed in a 4X event since taking out the national title in Adelaide in January, her hectic mountain bike and BMX commitments a fine balance.
 
Along with fellow 4X rider Jared Graves, Buchanan was this week named in the Australian team to contest the UCI World BMX Championships in South Africa in July.
 
Although Buchanan is one of Australia’s best hopes for a BMX gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, her sights are still firmly set on defending her world 4X title later this year.
 
“So far 2010 has been very successful already, no major injuries, winning the Australian 4X national title and having great results on the BMX.
 
“I am training harder than ever before with my sights set firmly on 2012 London Olympics.
 
“Defending my world title is a major goal of mine this year. I believe that I am stronger than last year I’m feeling more confident than ever.”
 
Graves (Yeti Fox Shox Factory Race Team) will look to cement his position on top of the World Cup table in the men’s race this weekend. The 27-year-old opened his 2010 campaign with a convincing win under lights in Houffalize, Belgium two weeks ago, picking up where he left off after claiming the World Cup victory last year.

And the battle in the thrilling men’s downhill will be wide open, Australian riders in with a credible chance of a podium finish.
 
Dual world champion Sam Hill, world championships bronze medallist Michael Hannah and 2010 national champion Chris Kovarik will all be in the mix for the medals, but the trio will face strong opposition from reigning world champion Steve Peet (GBR) and silver medallist Greg Minnaar (RSA).

For further information please visit the UCI website.

Downhill – Australian riders
Sam Hill
Michael Hannah
Chris Kovarik
Mitchell Delfs
Joshua Button
Bryn Atkinson
Will Rischbieth
Shaun O’Connor
Rhys Atkinson
Deon Baker
James Shepherd
Daniel Lavis
Marcus Fairbanks
Troy Brosnan
 
Four Cross – Australian riders
Jared Graves
Caroline Buchanan
Sarsha Huntington
 
For further information (media only), please contact:
 
Michelle Cook – MTBA Media
03 9500 0122, 0430 177 668 or email

Federal Government responds to Crawford Report
Wednesday, May 12, 2010

THE HON KATE ELLIS MP
MINISTER FOR SPORT
 
 
MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday, 11 May 2010
 
$325 MILLION BOOST TO SPORT & GETTING MORE AUSTRALIANS ACTIVE
 
The Rudd Government will boost the number of Australians participating in sport and drive Australia’s continued sporting success through the delivery of $324.8 million ongoing funding.
 
‘Australian Sport: The Pathway to Success’ is backed by $195.2 million in new funding – the biggest funding injection to sport in our nation’s history.
 
The Rudd Government will invest a record $1.2 billion in sport over the next four years, building on our $300 million boost to community sporting facilities in 2009, the single largest investment in community sporting infrastructure that this country has ever seen.
 
Australia has always been at the forefront of innovation and doing things differently to ensure our competitive edge when it comes to sport.
 
What has become clear is that our approach to sport has stagnated over the last decade resulting in stunted participation rates, skyrocketing obesity numbers and an emerging decline in our international sporting performances.
 
The Rudd Government is forging a new way forward for Australian Sport.
 
‘Australian Sport: The Pathway to Success’ delivers on the Rudd Government’s commitment to boost funding to both community and elite sport.
 
For the first time, it also delivers significant investment to the all-important development pathway - the vital link connecting grassroots and high performance sport.
 
The Australian Government’s whole-of-sport approach focuses on delivering in three key areas:
- Increasing the number of Australians participating in sport
- Strengthening sporting pathways
- Striving for success

Specific initiatives under these three areas include:
 
Delivering the first Sport and Education Strategy to bring a new focus on the delivery of quality sport in schools and boost the number of our children participating in sport
 
Requiring National Sporting Organisations (NSOs) to have an increased focus on participation outcomes as part of their funding agreements with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and boosting funding opportunities for NSOs to grow grassroots participation through direct grants to community clubs
 
Delivering a National Sport and Active Recreation Policy Framework that will for the first time enable a co-ordinated, whole-of-sport approach to sport from Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments
 
Additional coaching and officiating training opportunities for up to 45,000 community coaches and officials, and subsidise the costs associated with training for 5,000 new community coaches and officials
Investing in the development pathway by doubling the Local Sporting Champion program to support 8,000 junior athletes to participate in competition; and boosting opportunities for up and coming athletes to compete in domestic competition
 
Doubling our talent identification program to support 10,000 aspiring Australian athletes and employ more talent scouts
 
Requiring Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Scholarship-holders to volunteer at local community sporting clubs or junior sport programs
 
Boosting funding to identify, attract, develop and retain our high performance coaches including support for incentive packages and professional development.
 
Expanding funding support to our high performance athletes to support their training and participation in international competition
 
Re-aligning our high performances institutions and academies in a landmark partnership with State and Territories that will deliver a more cohesive system for sporting excellence
 
The Rudd Government will also deliver a $324.8 million investment into the ASC funding base to create a secure platform to plan beyond Budget cycles.
 
In particular, this will assist in better preparation for major events such as the Olympic and the Paralympic Games.
 
This significant suite of reforms represents the largest reform of Australian sport in three decades.
 
It will boost the number of Australian participating in sport, especially our children, while positioning Australia to continue to shine on the international stage.
 
In recognition of the significant leadership role played by the ASC, Australia’s peak national sport agency will be tasked with implementing ‘Australian Sport: The Pathway to Success’ and distributing funding.
 
The Rudd Government’s vision for sport not only brings a new strategic focus, but also helps equip our community to tackle the health and ageing challenges we face in the 21st century.
 
Australian Sport: The Pathway to Success is attached and available at: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/pathway-to-success
 
 

Document Download:
Pathwat to Success2010.pdf (PDF - 747 Kb)

Hosting Expression of Interest for 2010-2011 National Series
Monday, May 3, 2010

The EOI to host a round of the 2010-2011 MTBA National series is now available. EOI responses are due to MTBA by June 3rd 2010.

Further information can be obtained from the Executive Officer.

Document Download:
1011SeriesEOI.pdf (PDF - 388 Kb)
1011SeriesEOI.pdf (PDF - 388 Kb)

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